Addison Trail Wrestling Team members show support for Head Coach

Since 2004, Rob Serio has led the Addison Trail Wrestling Team as Head Coach – and his focus has always been to support the student-athletes to develop them into well-rounded and successful individuals.

“Wrestling teaches you a strong work ethic, respect, dedication and what it means to belong to a family,” Serio said.

And on Jan. 22, his team certainly showed that family aspect of the sport. Serio has overcome personal challenges this year, as he recently lost his mother-in-law, Rosemary Sparrow, to lung cancer. His wife, Tina, also was diagnosed with breast cancer in July and recently completed her treatment.

Addison Trail senior Karim Fuentes came up with the idea to have T-shirts made in support of Serio. During the Senior Night wrestling match on Jan. 22 against Hinsdale South High School, the Addison Trail Wrestling Team wore pink T-shirts with the words “Team Serio” on the back. The players huddled around Serio before the match, and he thanked them each with a hug.

“We’re a tightknit group,” said Nick Pingel, Addison Trail Freshmen/Sophomore Wrestling Coach. “Serio goes above and beyond for these students – he’s here day and night, and he helps with the youth wrestling programs as well. The team wanted to show their thanks and support of Serio during this difficult time.”