East County Athlete of the Week: Jaxon Griffin

This has been a big year for Jaxon Griffin. In March, the rising junior at Lakewood Ranch High qualified for the USA Swimming Futures Championships for the first time. He most recently competed at Speedo Sectionals in Ocala from June 4-7, qualifying for both the Speedo Summer and Winter Junior National Championships. His best result at that sectional meet was sixth place in the 400-yard individual medley (4:39.40). He will soon travel to the futures championships, which are set for July 29 through Aug. 1 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Griffin, who swims for Sarasota Tsunami, is the East County Athlete of the Week.

What did you think of your performance at Speedo Sectionals?

I went in trying to get my (Speedo Winter Junior National Championships) cut, and I got it by a good bit. The races felt good and it was better than I thought I was going to do.

What goals do you have in mind entering your junior year?

I'm trying to (reach the) podium at (the FHSAA Class 4A swimming and diving state championships) — that would be my goal — in the 500-yard freestyle. Last year, I (placed 12th at 4:34.31). I'm hoping to be more toward the front, potentially top-five.

When and why did you start swimming?

I started when I was little, (at John Marble Park) actually, in the old pool. I was 7 years old. I was playing multiple sports, and then I happened to be on a very competitive swim team, so I enjoyed swimming with my friends. Most of my friends kept swimming, so I stuck with it.

In what events do you specialize?

Distance freestyle is my main thing. When you're younger, you're doing everything, and I was actually more of a breaststroker. As I got older, the coaches would see in practice that I had good endurance. After they saw that, they had me focus on distance freestyle. I guess I've always had that endurance.

What quote or piece of advice have you always carried with you?

"Every day, stronger." That's a quote from one of my coaches (Courtney Daly, who died Aug. 30, 2025). Just focus on the short-term. Every day, be a little bit better than you were on the last.

What's a fun fact about you not many people know?

I'm related to one of the presidents, Zachary Taylor (who was the 12th U.S. President serving from 1849-50). My grandpa was looking at our family history and he found that out.

Who is your favorite professional athlete and why?

Rafael Nadal. My dad's a tennis player, and I grew up watching (Nadal). I just always liked the way he plays.

Finish this sentence. Jaxon Griffin is...

Competitive.