If you’ve ever wandered through the lots outside MetLife Stadium before a New York Jets home game, chances are you’ve encountered a sea of fans clustered around grills, coolers, and cornhole boards. But one tailgate stands out from the rest — not just for its scale or gourmet offerings, but for the spirit and heart that define it. At the center of it all is Joe Maino, better known to fans as TailgateJoe. A larger-than-life figure with a spatula in one hand and a mission in his heart, Joe is the founder of the largest New York Jets tailgate and a respected member of the national tailgating community. His story is one of grit, generosity, and the belief that tailgating is more than just a game-day tradition — it’s a way to make a real difference.

Joe’s journey began like many great stories do — with food, family, and football. A proud Italian-American from the New York City area, Joe grew up surrounded by the kind of hospitality that turned every meal into a celebration. When he began hosting his own tailgates in the late 2000s, those traditions naturally infused themselves into every corner of his setup. What started as a gathering of 30-40 close friends quickly grew into a gameday event for 300+ fans, many of whom came not just for the gourmet food or cold beer, but for the camaraderie Joe fostered. From the first hot sausage to the last high five before kickoff, every guest at TailgateJoe is treated like family.

But what separates Joe from the average tailgater is his why. From day one, he set out to build something more than a party — he wanted a purpose. TailgateJoe quickly evolved from a backyard-style cookout to a full-service event that offered structure, safety, and inclusion for fans of all backgrounds. Joe’s instinct for hospitality met his entrepreneurial mindset and culinary talents, creating a tailgate that feels as much like a neighborhood block party as it does a Jets fan rally. He used this momentum not just to feed fans, but to connect them — creating one of the most welcoming, spirited, and inclusive environments in all of professional sports.

Joe’s rise to tailgating prominence wasn’t without hardship. A Hodgkin’s Lymphoma survivor, and more recently, a male breast cancer survivor, Joe has stared down two life-altering diagnoses — and beat them both. These experiences not only shaped his outlook on life but gave new meaning to his platform. No longer just a tailgater, Joe became an advocate and activist, using TailgateJoe to raise awareness and support for cancer research and patient care. Through his website and tailgate events, he has donated funds to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, while also lending his time and energy to create unforgettable experiences for those affected by the disease.

In fact, Joe’s tailgate has often served as a makeshift “Make-a-Wish” experience for cancer patients and their families. Invited as VIP guests, these families enjoy a day of fun, food, and fellowship — all courtesy of TailgateJoe. Kids flip burgers, families get behind the grill, and smiles are served up with every plate. It’s a deeply personal gesture that speaks volumes about Joe’s character and the culture he’s built. It’s not about the spectacle. It’s about using the tailgate as a platform for kindness and connection.

Joe’s generosity isn’t limited to cancer-related causes. In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, when large parts of the tri-state area were left devastated by flooding and wind damage, Joe loaded up his trailer with meat, barbecue pits, and supplies — and got to work. TailgateJoe became a mobile kitchen for those in need, offering hot meals and support to communities that had lost everything. In another memorable event, he brought his entire setup to the Richmond University Medical Center Pediatric Oncology Unit, turning a hospital parking lot into a game day celebration for young patients and their care teams. These moments are reminders that Joe’s tailgate isn’t about ego — it’s about impact.

During the NFL season, Joe also uses his platform to promote early detection and cancer prevention, particularly during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In front of hundreds of tailgaters, he speaks candidly about his own experience with male breast cancer — a rare diagnosis — and urges others to stay proactive with their health. His openness has inspired countless fans to get screened, have conversations with their doctors, and take their well-being seriously. And with crowds often numbering 300-500 people, his message resonates far and wide. It’s tailgating with a conscience, and it’s exactly what makes TailgateJoe so special.

Joe Maino is more than just a great cook or diehard Jets fan. He’s a connector, a caretaker, and a creator of community. His story is proof that tailgating — when done with heart and intention — can become a vehicle for something far greater than pregame rituals. It can be a source of healing, joy, and purpose. Whether you’ve joined his crew in Lot E, or just followed his journey from afar, Joe’s dedication to hospitality and humanity has left a mark on the tailgating world that will last long beyond the final whistle. He represents the best of us — and we’re proud to call him a Hall of Famer.