Rob Gronkowski shocks fans with unexpected hockey skills at Fanatics Fest NYC
Photo byfor Fanatics
It turns out Rob Gronkowski doesn't just dominate the football field—he's got a pretty mean slapshot too. The four-time Super Bowl champion showed off his surprising hockey skills at Fanatics Fest NYC on Friday, trading his football cleats for a hockey stick in front of a packed crowd.
Known for his larger-than-life personality and raw athleticism, Gronkowski gave fans something new to cheer for as he stepped up for the
NHL
washer-dryer shooting challenge—famously inspired by Sidney Crosby's childhood drills. The tight end-turned-media personality proved he hasn't lost his competitive edge, even in retirement.
NFL superstar Rob Gronkowski dominates viral
hockey challenge
at
Fanatics Games 2025
in NYC, landing slapshots in Crosby-inspired target drill and shocking fans
When
Rob Gronkowski
grabbed a hockey stick on Friday, June 20, at Fanatics Fest NYC, the atmosphere instantly shifted.
The former Patriots and Buccaneers star took on the NHL booth's slapshot challenge—featuring a washer-dryer style target board—and reminded fans that his athletic talents go far beyond football.
Armed with 10 pucks and his signature grin, Gronkowski hit the top target twice and nailed the lower one five times. It was an impressive showing, especially for someone who hasn't traded hits on the ice since his childhood days in upstate New York.
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'My wrist is hurting,' Gronkowski said with a laugh after his turn at the challenge. '45 points? Wow, that is not bad at all.'
The event was part of the Fanatics Games, a high-stakes sports showdown taking place over the weekend. Featuring 50 athletes and celebrities matched with 50 fans, the competition spans eight events across multiple sports—including football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. The stakes? First place gets $1 million in cash, second drives off in a Ferrari 812 GTS, and third walks away with a graded LeBron James rookie card, recently valued at a cool $250,000.
Friday's event wasn't Gronkowski's first run at the hockey setup—he also gave it a go during last year's Fanatics Fest. This time around, he brought even more energy, even tossing a playful check at a fellow attendee before stepping off the mini rink.
Gronkowski's appearance added star power to an already stacked lineup at Fanatics Games, where other household names like Tom Brady, Julian Edelman, Kevin Durant, Jayden Daniels, and Alex Rodriguez were also slated to compete.
While Gronk is no longer suiting up on Sundays, moments like this remind everyone why he remains a fan favorite—equal parts competitor and entertainer.
Rob Gronkowski continues to entertain and impress at Fanatics Fest NYC
Rob Gronkowski may have left the gridiron behind, but his passion for sport still burns bright. Whether catching touchdowns or sniping targets with a hockey stick, he continues to thrill crowds with his infectious energy and all-around athleticism. At Fanatics Fest NYC, Gronk once again proved he's more than just a football legend—he's an all-around sports icon who knows how to have fun while still competing at a high level.
And judging by the cheers in the arena, fans wouldn't have it any other way.
Also Read:
Brad Marchand torches Edmonton Oilers in game 5 as Florida Panthers move one win from Stanley Cup redemption
Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
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