Panthers kicker teams up with Mac’s Speed Shop to support Charlotte youth

CHARLOTTE — Carolina Panthers kicker Ryan Fitzgerald is using his NFL platform to give back.

This season, he partnered with BBQ restaurant Mac’s Speed Shop on signature menu items, with 10% of the proceeds benefiting nonprofit organization, Promise Youth Development.

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“He did an interview with the New York Times and was talking about Charlotte and how he loved Mac’s Speed Shop, so our marketing department saw the interview and was like, ‘OK. Well, let’s reach out to the guy,’” said Charles Long, Mac’s director of Culinary Operations.

Mac’s Speed Shop approached the Panthers kicker prior to the season about creating a partnership with purpose. Fitzgerald didn’t hesitate.

“My abilities have given me this platform, now use the platform to give back,” he said.

Among items on the signature menu is “Fitz’s Big Kick Brisket Sandwich.” It features a half pound of brisket on a toasted brioche bun, served with a side and Mac’s house-made sauce.

“In true-athlete fashion, he wanted the bread, the meat, give me the protein and cut out all the other stuff,” Long said.

Their collaboration also includes Ryan Fitzgerald’s “Give Back Pack,” a tailgate package complete with brisket, pulled pork and various sides.

Fitzgerald said he wasn’t familiar with Promise Youth Development when Mac’s approached him, but researched organizations in the area, and resonated with their mission.

“I think just (their) mission to give back to underserved youth through mentorship, education, and anti-violence programs … that’s just a great cause,” he said.

Founder Tesha Boyd was as shocked as anyone, and called it a miracle.

“It makes it that much sweeter because he did it on his own,” she said. “We didn’t ask.”

Boyd added the effort could not have come at a better time.

“We already got notified that we’re not going to be funded by a particular agency next year, but Ryan came along,” Boyd said. “So, this is a choice that he made, and I didn’t know him. I didn’t know him at all.”

Boyd added, “Now, I’m more engaged (with) what’s going on, on the field, because I’ve seen him off the field.”

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