World Poker Tour

George Paravoliasakis “The Greek“

Birthplace
Heraklion Crete, Greece

Hometown
Heraklion Crete, Greece

Birthday
January 11

Total Winnings
$166,369

George "The Greek" Paravoliasakis has worked for everything he has in life. He was born homeless in Crete, Greece, on the island of Honor. He says he has been working to earn an honest living since he was 11 years old. He has been married for more than 40 years and has three daughters and two grandsons. He says family is the most important thing in life. He also considers honor a top priority. George became a tycoon of real estate and tourism by working hard and being true to his word. He is now retired, and he says he "rewards" himself by playing in poker tournaments.

George says he learned to play poker by reading books and playing for fun at home, but he honed his skills by playing with some of the best players in the world while visiting Las Vegas. George developed friendships with poker greats Chip Reese and Doyle Brunson. He says they've played for small stakes and large stakes, but the important thing is they played the game.

George "The Greek" has played in quite a few World Poker Tour events. In Seasons 1 and 2, George cashed in seven WPT tournaments. He made the final table of the Grand Prix de Paris in Season 2. He placed third in that event, winning more than $151,000. He says he considers poker a battle, and he prefers that players remain quiet from the time the dealer gives out the cards until each hand is finished. No matter what he's doing, you can bet George "The Greek" will put his family and his honor first.