On the field, the Orlando Predators and Tampa Bay Storm are bitter rivals. Nothing will ever change that. But off the field, our friends from Tampa are part of our Arena Football League family and when a member of your family is hurting, you do everything possible to help.
That’s why the Orlando Predators Foundation is asking all Predators fans to help Tampa Bay Storm linebacker Nyle Wiren and his family get through one of the most difficult and heartbreaking situations that any young man could ever face.
Caroline Wiren, wife of longtime Storm linebacker Nyle Wiren, passed away on Wednesday, May 16, after giving birth to the couple's first child, a healthy baby boy, on Tuesday evening. Caroline, a former Tampa Bay Storm dancer, co-directed the Storm dancers for three seasons (2003-2005) and most recently served as head coach for the University of South Florida's dance team, the SunDolls.
Orlando Predators quarterback Shane Stafford, who played with Wiren from 2001-2006 and remains a close personal friend, was devastated. “You could not find a better person, a better teammate or better friend then Nyle. I know how excited he and Caroline were anticipating the birth of their son. My heart just broke when I heard the news.”
Head coach Jay Gruden added “Nyle Wiren is a great football player and a great competitor. But more importantly, he’s a friend. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Orlando Predators organization go out to Nyle and his family.”
A trust fund is being developed to benefit the child in memory of Caroline. The Orlando Predators Foundation will accept donations on behalf of fund. Fans wishing to donate should send a check payable to: Orlando Predators Foundation, 302 S. Graham, Orlando, FL 32803. Please make sure to denote (Nyle Wiren Trust) on the memo portion of the check. All funds collected, along with a donation from the Orlando Predators, will be forwarded to the trust once it is established.
Courtesy: www.WireImage.com
