Written by Tiarra Bell, Staff Writer

A football field for some people is just a 120 yards of green grass. But for others, like VSU wide receiver Greg Dent, it’s a sanctuary— a sacred place where he can block out the entire outside world and be happy.

The Florida State transfer is a new addition to the VSU football family. Dent was born in Belle Glade, Florida, so Valdosta State was an ideal choice for Dent coming from a big school like Florida State, because it was close to home.

“I like to think about my family, especially my mom, when I go places and this (Valdosta State) was the perfect place. Not only is it one of the most winning schools in division 2, it gave me a chance to make a statement for the future,” Dent said.

His mother also made an impact on his decision to come to VSU. Because Valdosta is so close to Florida, it gives her a chance to come to all of the home games.

Family is very important to Dent. His initial love for the game started at a young age, when his grandmother would take him to football games all of the time. While the excitement on the field persuaded him, Dent didn’t start playing football until the eighth grade.

At Glades Central High, Dent started off as a quarterback then moved to defensive back his junior year. His senior year, he played both defensive back and wide receiver. This made him a true student of the game by knowing all positions.

This 5’11”, 195-pound slot receiver has true ambition, as he strives to be the best offensive weapon on the field.

With inspiration from his Florida State teammates, Jacksonville Shark’s Greg Reid and Jacksonville Jaguar’s Telvin Smith, he hopes to make the leap to professional status. He keeps in contact with both former teammates for motivation on the field to be the best.

“I want to be the top receiver, lead the team in kick return and punt return yards by the end of the season. I know that I have not played in a while, but after these first two games I feel like I can be very productive in this offense,” Dent said.

Averaging 52 yards a game, Dent is looking for a promising season his first year at Valdosta State, and his mind is set to make it one. Last year depended profoundly on the run, while this year, Valdosta wants to pass the ball more which will progress Dent’s production for the rest of the season.

“I take the game as it comes to me and make the best out of all the opportunities I get with that ball in my hand. I’m striving to be the best and make the leap to being the number one option,” Dent said.