by Rob Gronkowski’s heartfelt dedication: The guy who was honored by the freshly constructed Gronk Playground was brought to tears during its dedication on Tuesday at the ceremonial opening.
The Patriots’ three-time Super Bowl champion Rob Gronkowski spearheaded the effort to build the renovated playground on Boston’s Esplanade beside the Charles River. The now-retired Gronkowski was visibly moved as he spoke, with Robert Kraft, Governor Maura Healey, and a group of thrilled kids watching.
I apologize, but you still have me moving. Gronkowski addressed the audience while crying a little.
After attempting to gather his thoughts a second time, he said, “Wow.”
“I had the idea to give back to the Boston area because the [region] of New England fans have shown me so much love and support throughout my career,” Gronkowski said.
Gronkowski gave fans credit for supporting him despite his occasional antics, citing his contagious optimism and lighthearted demeanor.
From the very beginning. They enjoyed it, even if I was being a fool. He said, “You guys loved it.” So, thank you very lot. It greatly improved my performance.
The initiative is ADA accessible, with localized allusions (such as statements from athletes like Gronkowski’s former colleague, Tom Brady), and was made possible in part by $2 million contributed by the Gronk Nation Youth Foundation.
A GRONK SPIKE!With Rob Gronkowski’s characteristic celebration, the #GronkPlayground is now officially open. The former Patriots player broke down in tears as he described how Boston’s encouragement inspired him to return the favor.dov3LwEFz3 https://t.co/Tmgwu1DH2Npic.twitter.com
Gronkowski stopped running about with some of the youngsters (and teaching Gov. Healey how to Gronk spike a football) to talk to reporters about a project that had been in the works for a while.
He declared, “The day has arrived, and it is a day to celebrate.”
Fun fact: With 17 touchdowns in a single season, Rob Gronkowski is the tight end with the most touchdowns (established in 2011). On that list, who comes in second?
(The response is at the bottom.)
Hint: Prior to being selected by an NFC South team in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft, he played basketball and football at the University of Miami.
Schedules and scores:
Baltimore swept the shorter two-game set Tuesday, defeating the Red Sox 4-3 in 11 innings.
The Red Sox will start a pivotal four-game series against the Yankees in New York on Thursday after taking Wednesday off.
The Patriots’ final preseason game before the regular season begins is against the Giants at MetLife Stadium on Thursday. At 8 p.m., kickoff is scheduled.
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Julian Edelman believes this Patriots rookie could be steal of the draft
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5 things to know about Patriots rookie receiver Efton Chism III
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Report: Connecticut Sun could be purchased by antagonistic WNBA to prevent move to Boston
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5 things to know as the Red Sox and Yankees begin a key series in the Bronx
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Steve Pagliuca congratulates new Celtics ownership group after sale is finalized
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Boston Celtics sale is done. Bill Chisholm takes over as owner of NBA s most-decorated franchise.
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What NFL experts are saying about the possibility of a blockbuster Patriots trade
Mind games: Although the Red Sox didn’t win the game on Tuesday, Boston baseball fans found this scene, which was narrated by Lou Merloni of NESN, to be gratifying.
.@LouMerloni: “If you’re Connor Wong let’s see if you can get him to step off again.”Lou: “Beautiful” *Wong: *moves aside and encourages him to move again* What a sequencepic.Twitter: rJIyglydr
On this day in 2008, Usain Bolt accomplished an Olympic double by defeating all opponents in the 100-meter dash and then setting a world record in the 200-meter dash.
The 200-meter world record was broken ten years ago today by @usainbolt.#Olympicspic.twitter.com/MWhjF3Uywu #Beijing2008
Coincidentally, a year later in 2009, Bolt would smash his own record on the same day. Bolt’s time of 19.19 at the World Championships in Athletics broke his own 200-meter record. In 2025, it remains in place.
Highlight of the day: Watch this incredible catch from the Little League World Series, even though South Dakota ultimately defeated Washington.
Just one word. Whoa.image.Twitter: https://://mxU8Yr30Pp
Answer to the trivia question: Jimmy Graham
Since 2016, Hayden Bird has been employed at Boston.com as a sports staff writer. He covers every aspect of New England sports.
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