Hunter Peck: From Griz Star to Future Doctor

Meet the Griz is a series that tells the stories of Montana Grizzlies athletes, coaches, and contributors. Here are some past "Meet the Griz" features:

Meet the Griz: Hunter Peck

Hunter Peck was an AP All-American NAIA performer last year with the Carroll College Saints. He was named Frontier Conference Defensive Player of the Year and led the Saints to a 7-3 season. Last year was expected to mark the end of Peck's football career.

"After my time at Carroll, I thought I was done playing football," Peck said on the Inside the Den Podcast. "That kind of sucked a little bit, but I actually got a call from one of my old teammates, and he just presented the opportunity [to play for the Griz] to me."

Peck's coaches at Carroll helped orchestrate the connection to the Grizzlies, and the next thing you know, Peck is suiting up for the Montana Grizzlies.

Credit: University of Montana (Ryan Brennecke)

"I knew I wanted to stay in Montana with all my family in Montana, so it was just, definitely, the right fit for me. You know the culture, the tradition here it's—unmatched."

Peck is often associated with his high motor. He's relentless on the field. He has been overlooked and may not be the most talented guy, but he's going to bring 110% every outing.

"Those times when I get tired and I don't feel like I can give anymore, and you know, that's the kind of motivation that brings," Peck said on being overlooked for most of his career.

Paging Dr. Peck

As good as Peck has been on the gridiron, Peck's story is the most unique off the field. He's pursuing medical school. A football player turned doctor? I can't imagine that happens all too often.

"I'm in the application process now. It's sort of a long application process. It usually takes about a year each cycle and I'm at the point where I'm waiting to see if schools actually wanna do an interview with me."

"Medicine has been something for me that, unfortunately motivated by health circumstances in my family, but as well in the last four years when I left for college. Finding who I am and finding my passion for serving others and serving underserved communities."

Last weekend's "Think Pink" game raised awareness for breast cancer. It was an important game for the Peck family, as breast cancer has impacted his family. Hunter's mom and dad, Bruce and Teresa, volunteered pregame to distribute the Think Pink signs to seats around Washington-Grizzly Stadium.