In 2016, Ryley was talked into joining the high school softball team by coaches Steve, Tommie, and Hughy.

Long story short, Ryley and Tommie became fast friends — and before long, it became a running joke that Tommie would say, ‘You should date my son Jake.’

Well… turns out Tommie had a pretty great idea. Thanks, Tommie!

Jake’s parents, Tommie and Sara, continued to cheer Ryley on throughout her collegiate rugby career — and they didn’t let up on trying to convince her to date Jake!

Pictured here after a rugby match at Sobelmans in Milwaukee, WI.

Jake and Ryley quickly became inseparable.

Pictured here at Gabbie (Jake’s sister) and Zach Wollert’s wedding.

In December 2023, Jake proposed to Ryley at a Christmas lights festival, surrounded by their parents — Tommie, Sara, Rick, and Gina. It was cold and rainy, but to Jake and Ryley, it couldn’t have been more perfect.

They both agree it was love at first sight and knew shortly after their first date that they had found ‘the one.’

Truly, the best day ever!

In February 2024, Jake and Ryley closed on their first home (with help from Aunt Mindy — thanks again!) in Beloit, WI.

With the engagement and rent adding up, they figured it was the perfect next step to start their life together.