Rob Gronkowski to headline nonprofit fundraiser

Retired professional football player Rob Gronkowski will serve as the featured speaker for an annual Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield fundraiser.

Gronkowski is scheduled to keynote the nonprofit's 2026 Steak & Steak Dinner, which is scheduled April 7 at University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, according to a news release. Gronkowski is a former All-Pro tight end and Super Bowl champion who played for the New England Patriots and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

“Steak & Steak is about more than an incredible night and a great speaker – it’s about giving young people the tools, confidence and opportunities they need to be champions on and off the field,” said Amber Alcorn, director of strategic communication for Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, in the release. “When our community supports this event, they’re investing in the potential of kids across Springfield."

Last year's Steak & Steak Dinner, featuring Emmitt Smith, raised $265,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, Alcorn said via email, pointing to a $350,000 goal this year. Roughly 600 people attended last year's fundraiser.

Previous Steak & Steak Dinner speakers include Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Nick Saban, Brett Favre, Tony La Russa, Lance Armstrong and Peyton Manning, according to past reporting.