Flowery Branch, Ga.-- In a 2009 study, Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan was considered the second-favorite U.S. athlete among Metro Atlanta residents (second only to Tiger Woods...before last Thanksgiving).
And fellow pro sports franchises in town are also drawn to the face of Atlanta football.
On Wednesday, June 16 vs. Tampa Bay, Ryan will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at Turner Field prior to the Rays-Braves game.
But don't expect Braves catcher Brian McCann to be diving for the all too common first-pitch gone awry. Matt Ryan was the captain of his high school's football, basketball and baseball teams in suburban Philadelphia. Ryan played short, third and pitched - his prowess on the mound was established as a freshman at William Penn Charter, when he started and won the State Championship game.
Though Ryan is partial to his hometown Phillies, he plans to wear his Braves threads proudly next week in front of the Atlanta faithful who have quickly embraced the budding star quarterback.
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Follow Falcons Director of New Media Dan Levak on Twitter @FalconsDLevak
