After playing on the defensive line at Cathedral High School in Hamilton, Ontario, Giftopoulos committed to play college football at Penn State as a linebacker. He chose Penn State over Michigan, Notre Dame and Syracuse.[1] After starting his freshman season on the defensive line, Giftopoulos was shifted to tight end.[1] He was later moved to linebacker and gained a starting role before his junior season, earning the spot over Mike Beckish.[2]
Giftopoulos recorded a sack and two interceptions, including the game-sealing pick in the 1987 Fiesta Bowl.[3][1] During the following spring, he broke his tibia after a teammate fell on it in practice,[4] and a knee injury derailed his senior season.[5]
Professional career
Pittsburgh Steelers
After not being selected in the 1988 NFL draft, Giftopoulos signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on May 11, 1988.[6] He was released by the Steelers on August 23.[7]
Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Saskatchewan Roughriders selected Giftopoulos with the sixth overall pick in the 1988 CFL entry draft.[5] After being cut by the Steelers, Giftopoulos refused to report to practice and asked for a trade.[8]
Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats traded for Giftopoulos and a second-round draft selection in exchange for two other players.[9] He initially spent time at linebacker, but then moved to defensive line, then offensive line, then back to linebacker.[10]
Personal life
Pete's father Paul Giftopoulos was a professional soccer player in Greece before immigrating to Canada.[4] Two of Pete's brothers also played college football.[11] Pete also played basketball and soccer in high school and threw shot put.[4]
After his playing career ended, Giftopoulos became a restaurant entrepreneur in Hamilton and later returned to Penn State for kinesiology classes.[2] He married and had children.[12]
