The matron of honor, Stephanie Zimmerman. Stephanie isn’t just an incredible friend; she’s the bride’s longest and dearest friend, a sister in every sense of the word. Their journey together, like many siblings, started with playful squabbles and fierce arguments. Through thick and thin, from the highs to the lows, they have been each other's pillars of strength. Together, they faced the heartbreaking loss of their parents, showing remarkable resilience and unwavering support for one another. Despite the miles that sometimes separated them, Stephanie and the bride never let anything weaken their bond. With daily FaceTimes, they shared their lives, their dreams, and their love, remaining connected at the heart no matter where life took them.

Amy Wolfe. Amy is not just a bridesmaid but a cherished sister who has been a constant source of love and support. Though life has taken them to different states, their bond has remained unbreakable. They’ve built a relationship rooted in mutual respect, deep love, and unwavering support. It’s a bond that has weathered many storms, including the profound grief of losing their parents. Through these shared challenges, their sisterhood has only grown stronger.

It is my absolute joy to introduce Penny Boyan, a truly remarkable bridesmaid and the bride's childhood best friend. Their friendship blossomed in the 6th grade, and since then, they have shared the greatest adventures together, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Despite the twists and turns of life, including serving in the Army and living in different states, their bond has only grown stronger. The miles between them never weakened their connection; instead, it made their reunions all the more special.

It’s an absolute honor to introduce Amanda Robbins, our incredible bridesmaid. Amanda and the bride share a unique and enduring friendship forged through their time in the Army. Despite living in different states, their connection has remained strong and unyielding. Amanda is a beacon of inspiration, a dependable friend who has consistently been there through thick and thin. Her unwavering motivation and boundless love have uplifted and supported the bride time and time again.

It’s my heartfelt pleasure to introduce a truly special bridesmaid today – Kayla Fuselier. Kayla and the bride's friendship is one that was forged in the Army, a bond that has weathered many storms and stood the test of time. Together, they’ve navigated the rough seas of breakups, breakdowns, and those inevitable moments when life seemed to fall apart. Through it all, they found ways to reconnect, lifting each other up from the deepest pits and celebrating each victory along the way.

It is with great pleasure that I introduce Connie Dicken, a bridesmaid who embodies the very essence of friendship. Connie is that rare and remarkable kind of friend—a true gem who has been steadfast, genuine, and loving through thick and thin. Her dedication to the bride is immeasurable, and her honesty has been a guiding light in their friendship. Whether it's through laughter or tears, Connie has always been there with a sincere heart and an open ear, offering unwavering support and love.

It gives me great pleasure to introduce Brittney, a vibrant and dynamic bridesmaid who has become one of the bride’s dearest friends. Their friendship has burned brightly and become a source of immense joy and excitement. Brittney is the embodiment of energy and enthusiasm. She is a lover of the extreme, an adventurer at heart, and a passionate traveler who seeks out life's thrills wherever she goes. Her zest for life and daring spirit bring a spark of excitement and wonder to every moment.

It is with great excitement that I have the honor of introducing Whitney, a bridesmaid who holds a unique and special place in the bride's heart. Whitney is not just a bridesmaid; she is the bride's sister-in-law and has become the bride's soul sister and spirit animal over the years. Their bond runs deeper than family ties. Whitney's presence is a blend of warmth, understanding, and unwavering support, making her an irreplaceable part of the bride's life. She symbolizes everything a true soul sister would—someone who understands without words and supports without hesitation.

Introducing Robert Sharkey, affectionately known as "Shark," a larger-than-life character whose presence at UCF wrestling was as unforgettable as his love for cheese! While not an official member of the UCF wrestling team, Shark's passion for his friends made him an honorary member in the hearts of all who knew him. His independent spirit and refusal to conform to conventional norms often put him at odds with the establishment (and the UCF Alumni Association), but his convictions remain unwavering. Shark is a loyal friend who's always there to lend an ear. Known for long walks in the middle of the night, he provides a listening ear for friends in need. True to his nickname, Shark's love for the water runs deep. Whether he's at the beach or cruising along the coastline, his passion for boating and all things aquatic exemplifies his sense of adventure. Despite his love for late nights at the bar, Shark is always the first person up and ready to tackle the day. His strong work ethic is evident in everything he does, inspiring those around him.

Introducing Bryan Balma, not just my older brother, but a close friend, colleague, and confidant. For over a decade, Bryan and I have been partners in both work and life, collaborating personal and professional challenges and triumphs. We serve as each other's sounding boards, offering honest feedback and daily advice that fuels our growth and success. While our perspectives may differ at times, our brotherly bond remains unshakeable, grounded in mutual respect. Through thick and thin, Bryan's support and friendship have been a constant source of strength, guiding me through life's highs and lows. Bryan's role as a father to four boys is a testament to his dedication to family. His love knows no bounds as he pours his energy into supporting his children's dreams and ambitions. As a wrestling coach, I've had the privilege of traveling around the country with Bryan and his boys, sharing in the joy of coaching and witnessing their growth both on and off the mat. Bryan is the type of person who would do anything for his family and friends, always willing to lend a helping hand or a listening ear to those in need.

Introducing Rich Kelley, a lifelong friend whose journey intertwines with mine in a tapestry of shared experiences. Rich and I have been through thick and thin together, from high school friends to college roommates to adulthood best friends. But perhaps one of the most significant chapters in Rich's life started with a simple introduction. It was through me that he met the love of his life, a serendipitous encounter that changed the course of his story forever. Now I get to be Uncle Jay to his 3 boys. Rich's journey began as a computer science nerd and turned it into a thriving career. Starting in the Air Force, he honed his skills in the realm of technology and cybersecurity, paving the way for a successful transition into the private security sector. Yet, Rich's influence extends far beyond the confines of his professional life. He's also a passionate advocate for pushing boundaries and embracing challenges. It was Rich who introduced me to the world of ultra-marathons, igniting a shared passion for endurance running that has tested the limits of our perseverance. In essence, Rich Kelley is more than just a friend — he's my brother in life and a source of inspiration.

Introducing Tom Lawlor, a dynamic force both inside and outside the ring! Tom is a seasoned professional wrestler, renowned for his electrifying performances, witty banter, infectious humor, and unapologetic authenticity. Outside of the ring, he's a skilled mixed martial artist (MMA), having competed at the highest levels of the sport. Our paths first crossed on the wrestling mat, where our high school teams were fierce rivals. This rivalry transformed into camaraderie when we continued our wrestling journey together in college after Tom stumbled out of his Astro van and invited me to wrestling practice! Our bond transcends mere acquaintance; I've had the unique privilege of sharing living quarters with Tom, having once called his garage my temporary home. But our adventures didn't end there. Sharing the same college major in Social Studies Education, led us on many adventures together. From taking classes together at Cambridge University to doing our internship together, we built a bond that extended friendship and teammates. Tom Lawlor isn't just a wrestling phenom or an academic peer — he's a friend, a confidant, and a partner in adventure.

Introducing Shawn Stuart, a man whose vibrant personality and colorful journey make him a standout character! Shawn and I were introduced through UCF wrestling, where his presence was as memorable as his trademark move. Shawn was as animated as they come, but what truly set him apart was his mastery of the JV throw, a move he perfected with finesse and flair. However, Shawn's journey didn't stop at wrestling. Unsurprisingly, he ventured into the world of entertainment as a famous bleached-hair disc jockey, captivating audiences with his infectious energy. Today, he's taken on a new role as a used car salesman, where his charm continues to shine, making him a standout in the industry. Despite his ever-changing endeavors, one thing remains constant: Shawn's signature outfit of choice, the speedo. Whether he's lounging by the pool or downtown, Shawn's confidence in his speedos is unmatched, embodying a carefree spirit. Beyond his flashy exterior, Shawn is known affectionately as "Uncle Shawn" to his friends' children, a testament to his boundless love and affection for the little ones. His nurturing nature and playful spirit make him a beloved figure in their lives.

Introducing Keith Sholders, a pillar of dedication and passion in the realm of high school sports and coaching excellence. For the past decade, I've had the privilege of serving as Keith's assistant wrestling coach, forging a friendship that goes beyond the wrestling mat. Keith's commitment to Westfield High School is unparalleled, as he dedicates himself year-round to coaching multiple sports, from football to wrestling to tennis. His tireless efforts have elevated the athletic program to new heights, instilling a sense of pride and camaraderie among students and staff alike. When tournament time rolls around, Keith's voice echoes up and down the halls with his trademark rallying cries of "We gotta go!" and "Yeah buddy!" His infectious enthusiasm ignites a fire within our athletes, propelling them to give their all on the mat. But beyond his coaching accolades, Keith is more than just a mentor — he's a friend, a confidant, and a source of unwavering support.

Introducing Matt Bohren, a man whose charm seems to age like fine wine, growing more handsome with each passing year! Like most of my friends today, Matt and I first met on the wrestling mats at UCF in adjacent weight classes. Our friendship off the mats began in a rather unexpected manner, as he came to my aid during a night out when my fake tooth decided to make a surprise exit. His quick thinking and resourcefulness in helping me retrieve it showcased not only his reliability but also his subtle wittiness and humor. Matt's journey from athletic training to becoming a physician's assistant speaks volumes about his dedication to helping others. His commitment to excellence and compassionate care have made him a trusted ally in the realm of healthcare. Though he now resides in Indiana, Matt's heart remains firmly rooted in his support for the UCF Knights. Despite the distance, he never misses an opportunity to cheer on our alma mater. Indeed, Matt's humor is a defining aspect of his personality, characterized by a dry wit and always finding humor in life's little ironies. Yet, beneath his lighthearted demeanor lies a deep sense of discipline and determination.

Introducing Jayson Patino, a man of many facets and unforgettable experiences! Jayson is not only the powerhouse behind a thriving Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) gym but also a living legend on the mats. Our paths first crossed in high school, where Jayson bested me at the state tournament our senior year. Our wrestling rivalry didn't end there. We went on to become college teammates, where we shared the joys and challenges of collegiate wrestling. Surprisingly, our journeys reached a synchrony as we finished with identical national placements. Jayson's resemblance to the iconic AC Slater from "Saved by the Bell" is uncanny, but his presence goes far beyond looks. He embodies the same confidence and charm that make Slater a beloved character. However, our friendship isn't without its mischievous moments. Recently, in a playful exchange, I inadvertently launched a water balloon assault on Jayson's son, adding a bit of ripple in the family dynamic as Dylan and Delaney are betrothed to the now scared Ronan. In essence, Jayson Patino is a true embodiment of resilience, camaraderie, and a zest for life.

Introducing Todd Hauser, a man whose presence in my life transcends the title of officiant at my wedding. Todd and I share a bond that was forged on the wrestling mats of UCF, where our shared experiences laid the foundation for a lifelong friendship. From college wrestling to adulthood, Todd's friendship has remained constant. For many years our paths aligned, both teaching and coaching. Today Todd enjoys chasing storms to have a good look at your roof. Like the vantage point from the top of the house, Todd has an admired perspective on life. A die-hard UCF football fan, Todd's passion for his alma mater knows no bounds. Alongside his wife, Sevie, he travels the country to support the UCF Nation (GO KNIGHTS!). As a recent father, Todd's nurturing spirit extends to the next generation. Dylan and Delaney, adore their "Uncle Todd" and cherish the special bond they share with him from horrifying nights at “Howl-O-Scream” to “Cheddars!” Todd's love for the water and the ocean is a testament to his adventurous spirit and zest for life. Whether he's cruising on a boat chasing a lobster, Todd finds peace with killing ocean creatures. Todd Hauser is more than just a friend; he's family.

It is my great honor to introduce a truly special person who will be walking the bride down the aisle, James Zimmerman. In the absence of the bride's father, James steps in to fulfill this cherished role. But James is far more than just a stand-in. Though he is technically her nephew, the bride was raised alongside James as if they were siblings. They have shared every moment from the darkest lows to the greatest highs, supporting each other through thick and thin. Their bond is unshakeable, built on a foundation of love, trust, and countless shared secrets. James is the bride's best friend and confidant. Whether he's lighting up the room as the life of the party or offering his wise, nonjudgmental advice, James is a cornerstone in the bride's life.