As the son of Marlins Legends Hall of Famer Jeff Conine, Griffin Conine carries forward a legacy of service, embodying the compassion and leadership central to the Roberto Clemente Award.
Griffin has prioritized a wide range of causes, with a strong focus on youth development and increasing access to baseball. Working closely with the Marlins Foundation, he helped launch the 2025 season with the Marlins Tee Ball Initiative’s Opening Day at Miami Beach, where he joined young athletes on the field, led drills and offered encouragement. When Griffin attends events, he leads with intention, making every child feel seen, valued and inspired. The Tee Ball Initiative kicked off a summer-long initiative to grow the game and foster confidence in more than 4,000 kids participating in 26 leagues across South Florida’s diverse communities.
One of the year’s most impactful appearances came at the Beep Ball Classic, an adaptive baseball experience for blind and visually impaired young adults. Diving into the game, Griffin played blindfolded, stepping fully into their world and gaining firsthand perspective on their courage and resilience. By lending his platform and time, he amplified the importance of inclusivity in sports.
A champion for literacy and education, Griffin joined Billy’s Summer Reading Challenge at a Miami library, engaging with local children, reading aloud and encouraging a lifelong love of learning. He shared stories from books and his personal experiences, connecting with kids and emphasizing the importance of staying curious and prioritizing learning, whether it's inside or outside the classroom.
In July, Griffin joined a PLAY BALL Clinic, a Major League Baseball initiative that promotes youth wellness and physical activity. He brought high energy as he led warmups, engaged with 150 participants and spoke about health, nutrition and staying active. For many attendees, this was their first interaction with an MLB player and their first time inside a big league ballpark. Griffin helped make the clinic a memorable experience for all involved.
In August, Griffin visited Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center's Alex’s Place, a space designed to empower young patients and support their families. On Coloring Book Day, he engaged with the children, helping them find joy and distraction from their cancer treatment.
Throughout the season, Griffin supported the Marlins Foundation's efforts to honor individuals making a positive impact in the South Florida community. During an in-game 'Community Gamechanger' moment, these individuals are recognized and presented with a jersey in front of thousands of fans.
Whether it’s introducing kids to the game, making baseball accessible to all or inspiring youth through education and wellness, Griffin shows up with purpose. Through his selfless service, boundless energy and heartfelt connection to South Florida, Griffin Conine exemplifies the enduring legacy of Roberto Clemente, making him a worthy nominee for the 2025 Roberto Clemente Award.