CT Resident Named Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Model

CONNECTICUT — Connecticut resident and former New England Patriots cheerleader Camille Kostek, 27, of Killingworth, has landed the coveted Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover for 2019. Kostek is currently dating recently retired New England Patriots star Rob Gronkowski.

She was informed of the decision today and when she learned the news she became overcome with emotion saying "oh my God" as she burst into tears.

"I can't believe it," she exclaimed, while adding, "Love who you are and the greatest things in your life will happen.... I am so happy."

She appeared on Good Morning America with Tyra Banks Wednesday. She said she was "shaking in her shoes" and "speechless" when she was told she made the cover as a "rookie."

SI released three separate covers, one with Kostek on it, another with Tyra Banks making her return and US National Women’s Soccer Team star Alex Morgan.

SI Swimsuit editor MJ Day told Boston.com that in 2018 Kostek was a "Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model search hopeful" and she was competing for a spot with many others and now she's on the cover.

Kosten is a Haddam-Killingworth High School graduate and was a lacrosse team captain. She is an Eastern Connecticut State University graduate. She was a New England Patriots cheerleader from 2013-15, according to the Middletown Press.