Gronk Fulfills Wish In Melrose

MELROSE, MA — Ryan Feeney, a young Winthrop School student involved in the Make-A-Wish Foundation, got more than he bargained for Friday. And it was awesome.

Feeney - known as Ryno - wished for a football field in his backyard. No small feat, but the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Melrose DPW workers helped make it a reality. Ryno was surprised Friday morning with the field, complete with Patriots logo and 'Feeney Field' signage.

The field was just the beginning of it. A special guest from the New England Patriots showed up at the grand opening: You may know him as Gronk.

Rob Gronkowski, as well as the Melrose High football team and cheerleaders, were on hand to greet Ryno. Sign up to Melrose Patch for more local news and alerts around town.

"Ryan is a great kid who doesn’t let his challenges hold him back, and we were happy to help grant his wish," Mayor Dolan wrote on his blog. "The City of Melrose, the Melrose DPW, and the Melrose High School football team and cheerleaders were very proud to play a small role in making this dream come true."

Photos courtesy of City of Melrose