IN PHOTOS: Rob Gronkowski's girlfriend Camille Kostek shares sneak peek into NFL legend's Greater Buffalo Hall of Fame induction
Rob Gronkowski's induction into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame was seemingly a glamorous affair at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center on Nov. 13, 2024.
His girlfriend, Camille Kostek, documented the milestone through a series of intimate Instagram stories, giving fans a behind-the-scenes peek at the NFL legend's hometown celebration.
The retired tight end's football legacy speaks volumes – his 92 touchdown receptions rank third among tight ends in NFL history, trailing only Antonio Gates and Tony Gonzalez.
At 35, Gronkowski's reception total stands 10th all-time among tight ends, cementing his place among the game's elite since retiring in 2022.
Kostek's social media updates captured the couple's elegance. The former Patriots star commanded attention in a black tuxedo, while Kostek matched his sophistication in a striking black dress. Their photos in the empty event hall offered an exclusive glimpse before the ceremony began.
The celebration brought together a remarkable Class of 2024, including inductees like NFL writer Vic Carucci, hockey administrator Warren Gelman and Sabres broadcast pioneer Paul Wieland. For the Gronkowski family, this recognition carried special weight.
"We were all best friends working together and competing," shared Dan Gronkowski, Rob's older brother to Buffalonews.com. "And we always rooted for each other, and we always pushed each other. That helped tremendously. You see your brothers excelling, and you think, 'If he can do it, I can do it.'"
Buffalo homecoming brings career full circle to Rob Gronkowski
Between sharing candid couple selfies, Kostek gave a heartfelt nod to her local support team.
"Shoutout to this buffalo glam squad who quickly got me ready for the buffalo sports hall of fame," she posted.
The evening sparked revelations about Rob Gronkowski's near-homecoming in 2021.
"My second year in Tampa, I hit free agency for my first time ever, so I just talked to the Bills a little bit," Gronkowski shared during his WGR radio appearance. "It was like a five percent chance that I was going to be a Buffalo Bill my last year of playing in the NFL."
Instead, he chose one final season with Tom Brady in Tampa, where he showcased his enduring talent – averaging 14.6 yards per reception across 12 games. He accumulated 802 yards and six touchdowns on 55 catches.
Rob Gronkowski's career path may have led him through New England and Tampa Bay, but Buffalo remained ingrained in his identity.
"I was a big Bills fan growing up. Then, when I went to New England, I actually despised the Bills," Gronkowski admitted candidly. "Now that I'm retired again, I'm a Bills fan once again, baby. It makes total sense. You can't take the Buffalo out of me. That's for sure."
Those 16 matchups against his hometown team produced memorable statistics – 1,132 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns.
"It was always a dream to play for the Buffalo Bills. It doesn't always work out," reflected Gronkowski.
Yet, on this night, captured through Kostek's lens, Rob Gronkowski stood celebrated not as an opponent, but as Buffalo's own returning son.