Story and Photography by Joyce Taylor

Rob “Gronk” Gronkowski is regarded as the best tight end in football history. He played nine seasons for the New England Patriots, winning three Super Bowls and came out of retirement to team up with Tom Brady for two seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, winning his fourth Super Bowl. Gronk came to Murfreesboro to raise funds at the annual Stake & Burger, drawing a sell-out crowd. Gronk visited the Boys & Girls Club and was interviewed by club member Karson Chesnutt. With club members screaming, “Gronk, Gronk, Gronk,” he was introduced to his fans. At the main event at MTSU, he was interviewed by hometown NFL star Kelly Holcomb. 

The evening began with Jay Cash leading a spirited auction to raise funds for the children. Mark Pirtle was honored posthumously with a scholarship for a Boys & Girls Club Senior to attend MTSU. 

For more information, visit www.bgcrc.net.