![Greg Pyke with Jackson, Caroline & Hannah Smith at Countdown to KO - 07-11-15 (Photo by Greg Poole / Bulldawg Illustrated)](http://biphotos.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/12142911/Greg-Pyke-with-Jackson-Caroline-Hannah-Smith-Countdown-to-KO-7-11-15.jpg)
(Photo by Greg Poole / Bulldawg Illustrated)
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Hometown: Baltimore, MD
[su_spacer size=”20″] Major: Human Development Family Sciences
[su_spacer size=”20″] Parents: Marci and Bruce Pyke
[su_spacer size=”20″] Siblings (ages): Andrew Pyke- 28, Lauren Pyke- 31
[su_spacer size=”40″] Who has been your big influence while being a player at Georgia and why?
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[su_spacer size=”40″] Do you have a game that sticks out in your mind as being one of your very best? What made it special?I think older guys like Kolton and boss were big influences for me. They really brought me in when I first got down here and made me feel like family. Playing next to them made me a better player.
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[su_spacer size=”40″] Your favorite sport other than football and why?Well last year was my first time playing in the Georgia Florida game and wow what an experience that was. When you drive over the bridge on your way to the stadium and see all of the people tailgating, it gives you goosebumps. It’s such a big game and the fans always make it have a great atmosphere.
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[su_spacer size=”40″] Who is your greatest role model and why?My favorite sport other than football would be lacrosse since I have been playing it since I was six years old and didn’t start playing football until I was a freshmen in high school. Thought about going to college to play lacrosse too since my brother and sister both did.
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[su_spacer size=”40″] Your go to meal in Athens, why?My greatest role model is my older brother Andrew. Ever since I’ve been young I’ve always looked up to him. Whatever he was doing I wanted to do. He is the person I go to when I need advice on something.
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[su_spacer size=”40″] Your favorite band or song to listen to before games?If I have the time, I usually will make my own food. I really actually like cooking and nothing beats throwing some steaks on the grill and hanging out with the guys.
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[su_spacer size=”40″] What have you found to be the best way to stay grounded with all the hoopla that surrounds being a Division One football player?It may be weird but I honestly am not one of those guys that is listening to pump up music before games or anything for that matter. I like to just take in the crowd and get my mind right before the game.
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[su_spacer size=”40″] Besides being an NFL player, what is your dream job and why?Well I may be biased but Georgia has the best fans in the country. Events like picture day are always fun for me because I get to see and hangout with the people that are in Sanford Stadium every Saturday cheering us on. Also going to places in the community like Camp Sunshine always puts a smile on a face and makes me think how truly blessed I am.
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[su_spacer size=”40″]Being so blessed with my athletic opportunities, I would like to work with those that are less fortunate especially physically and mentally challenged children. I hope to one day coach, teach or mentor those individuals.
[su_spacer size=”40″] Make sure to check out Bulldawg Illustrated’s latest print edition: Saban vs Richt – Only one man will be smiling after this one, digital issue available for free online click HERE.
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