Pitt Football News

9-13-06

Tyler Palko Named to "Good Works Team"

PITTSBURGH-University of Pittsburgh senior quarterback Tyler Palko has been named to the 2006 American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) "Good Works Team," which honors student-athletes who have distinguished themselves in their dedication to community service.

Palko (Imperial, Pa./West Allegheny) is one of 11 players named to the Division I-A Good Works Team. In addition to being an All-Big East performer at Pitt, he has been highly active in numerous community endeavors.

Palko was the driving force behind the TC House Foundation, a non-profit organization established to raise funds for the construction of a group home for individuals with Down Syndrome in Imperial. He teamed up with lifelong friend Chris McGough, a student at West Allegheny High who was born with Down Syndrome, to form the foundation.

Additionally, Palko was selected as a DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) role model and has been a keynote speaker for the organization's events, participated in the 2006 Walk for Autism and is a regular visitor at Pittsburgh's Children's Hospital.

"Tyler Palko is a young man the Western Pennsylvania region can be incredibly proud of," Pitt head coach Dave Wannstedt said. "Not only is Tyler a committed student and athlete, but he has also dedicated himself to making a difference in people's lives."

"The time demands for a Division I student-athlete are considerable," Pitt athletic director Jeff Long said. "Their days begin early in the morning and don't end until late at night. The fact that Tyler has invested so much energy into community pursuits speaks volumes about the type of person he is. We're incredibly proud of his efforts and the example he sets for others."

Through two games this season, Palko has completed 28-of-43 passes (65.1%) for 550 yards with six touchdowns and one interception. He ranks second nationally (first in the Big East) with a 213.95 efficiency rating. Palko ranks 13th nationally in total passing yards (550) and 14th in passing yards per game (275.0).

His play has helped the Panthers get off to a 2-0 start. Pitt will host Michigan State this Saturday, Sept. 16, at Heinz Field. Kickoff is set for noon.