Gostkowski, Stephen
born: Jan. 28, 1984
professional football playerOne of the best kickers in the NFL is a Polonian
by James DombrowskiDrafted by the New England Patriots in the 4th Round number 118 overall in 2006, Stephen Gostkowski stared at the University of Memphis as a kicker on the football team and pitcher in baseball. After graduating from Central High School in Madison, Mississippi, the All-State Football, Soccer, and Baseball player received a partial scholarship for baseball at Memphis. He was a walk-on for the football team and quickly caught the eyes of the coaching staff with his accuracy of making field goals and extra points. That gained him a full ride in college and a path to the NFL.
He was selected All Conference USA in both football and baseball. At Central High School he was 16-2 with a 1.00 ERA on the mound and helped lead his team to a State Title.
He was born on January 28, 1984 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Stephen is married to Hallie and they have a son named Slayden Kyle. He majored in Exercise and Sports Science. Stephen is involved with the Salvation Army and United Way Charities.
Gostkowski set the NFL single season record for P.A.T. (point after attempts) by going 74 for 74 during the 2007 season. He was selected to the 2008 Pro Bowl and made the A.P. All-Pro 1st Team. In 2008 he set the Pats record for successful field goals with 36 and he led the NFL in scoring with 148 points.
From: Post Eagle, October 13, 2010