It all started way back in 2006, when Tony was at Upward Bound, and Mariah’s brother, Dusty, was his math instructor. Dusty wasn’t your average teacher — he liked to take his students on fun adventures, and Tony and his brothers were always along for the ride. Tagging along was Dusty’s little sister, Mariah, who was just heading into 7th grade. And that’s when Tony and Mariah first crossed paths. Fast forward many years — Tony was coaching football at the high school where Mariah was now a teacher. One fateful game night, Mariah was busy taking tickets at the door when Tony walked up to say hi… only for Mariah to blink, tilt her head, and not remember him at all. Tony had to reintroduce himself (awkward!), but fate wasn’t done with them yet. A few months later, they ran into each other again at the school. Mariah, who was coaching Special Olympics, mentioned they needed a male basketball coach for the winter season. She asked Tony if he was interested — and lucky for both of them, he said yes. From there, Tony somehow found himself not just coaching but slowly becoming part of Mariah’s friend group. One thing led to another, and their friendship blossomed into something more. Since then, Tony has been Mariah’s biggest support — literally following her all over Wisconsin! From Altoona to Hayward, Green Bay to Rudolph, and now making a home together in La Crosse, their story has been one of adventures, laughter, and a lot of miles. And to think… it all started with a math teacher, a little sister, and a football game. ❤️

On December 21st, 2024, beneath the golden Florida sun and with the ocean stretching endlessly before them, Tony asked Mariah the most important question of his life. The setting was perfect—Matheson Hammock Park Beach in Coral Gables, just a stone’s throw from her brothers' home. But this wasn’t just any day at the beach. Tony had orchestrated every detail, ensuring Mariah’s family was there to share in the moment. As they enjoyed the warm breeze and salty air, her brother Dusty had a drone soaring above, capturing every second, while Ryan and Becky stood ready with cameras in hand, and her parents enjoyed watching every minute. With the waves gently lapping at the shore, Tony led Mariah to a breathtaking ocean view, took a deep breath, and dropped to one knee. Time stood still as he asked her to spend forever with him. With joyful tears and a glowing smile, Mariah said yes! But Tony had one more surprise—he handed Mariah a ring and asked her to propose back, making the moment truly theirs. As love and laughter filled the air, their engagement became not just a beautiful milestone for the two of them, but a cherished memory for their entire family. And the celebration didn’t stop there—just one day later, they all set sail on a magical seven-day cruise, traveling to multiple countries, celebrating Christmas, and basking in the joy of a love that was always meant to be. ❤️