Lake Mary Coach Becomes Guardian to Orphaned Wrestler

Maryellen Wingate, a wrestler at Lake Mary High School in Seminole County, faced unimaginable loss by her sophomore year: both parents succumbed to cancer in her early teens.[1][3][4] Taking up wrestling in eighth grade, she found solace and passion in the sport at the school in Central Florida's bustling Lake Mary community.[3] Coach Andy Rothenberg and his wife, knowing Wingate's struggles, became her legal guardians, offering support at school, on the wrestling mat and in their home.[3][4] The Rothenbergs' decision transformed Wingate's life, providing the family structure she needed to continue competing and thriving academically.[1][3] Lake Mary High School, part of the Seminole County Public Schools district serving over 65,000 students, fosters strong athletic programs, with wrestling a key draw in the competitive FHSAA circuit.[3] This guardianship ensures Wingate's focus remains on her future rather than survival. Wingate's resilience shines through her dedication to wrestling, a sport demanding grit that mirrors her personal battles.[1][4] The story, first reported by FOX 35 Orlando, underscores the profound bonds in Florida high school sports, where coaches often go beyond the sidelines.[3] As of recent coverage, Wingate continues training under Rothenberg's guidance in Lake Mary, a city of about 72,000 known for its family-oriented suburbs north of Orlando.