# Florida Tech Coach Tony Marleneanu Faces Devastating Home Flood Losses Head coach and family lack flood insurance after severe storms destroy their home. - **Source:** [SwimSwam](https://swimswam.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-11 - **Topic:** [world](https://brifing.si/c/world) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/1cd9550d-5fbd-48ac-985d-17ad07370e97 ## Severe Storms Impact Florida In early November, heavy flooding swept across Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida, causing widespread destruction. Florida Tech head swimming coach Tony Marleneanu and his family were among those severely affected by the historic rainfall. Their residence sustained significant structural damage, leaving the family to navigate the immediate aftermath of the natural disaster. ## Lack of Insurance Coverage The Marleneanu family home is situated outside of a designated flood zone, which meant they did not carry flood insurance. Consequently, they are now personally responsible for all repair and replacement costs. This financial burden is compounded by the loss of their family vehicle, which was destroyed during the intense storm event. ## Extensive Structural Property Damage The flooding resulted in over a foot of water entering the family home, necessitating the removal of drywall and flooring throughout the structure. Beyond the physical building repairs, the family lost numerous personal belongings, including furniture, books, and children's toys. These losses represent a significant emotional and financial setback for the household. ## Community Support Through Fundraising A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the Marleneanu family with living expenses and home restoration costs. The initiative seeks to provide a financial safety net for the coach, his wife Kathleen, and their two children. Supporters are encouraged to donate or share the link to help the family regain normalcy. ## Coach Marleneanu's Professional Role Tony Marleneanu is currently in his third year leading the Division II Florida Tech men’s and women’s swimming and diving program in Melbourne. Known for his dedication to athletes, he recently canceled an alumni meet and a tri-meet due to the inclement weather conditions that ultimately caused the damage to his home. ## Athletic Program Context Under Marleneanu's leadership, the Florida Tech swimming teams have maintained a competitive presence in the Sunshine State Conference. Last season, both the men’s and women’s squads achieved a fifth-place finish at the conference championships. Additionally, athlete Akos Hajagos earned NCAA Division II All-American honors by placing fourth in the 200-yard butterfly event. ## The Reality of Uninsured Losses The situation highlights the vulnerability of homeowners residing in areas not officially classified as high-risk flood zones. When historic weather events occur, families without specific flood insurance often face catastrophic financial consequences. The Marleneanu case serves as a stark example of how unexpected climate-related disasters can disrupt lives and professional commitments. ## Path to Recovery Efforts As the family works to rebuild, the focus remains on securing the necessary funds to restore their living environment. The outpouring of support from the Florida Tech community and the broader swimming world is intended to alleviate the immediate pressure of these losses. Recovery will be a long process for the family. ## Sources covering this story - https://swimswam.com/division-ii-florida-tech-head-coach-tony-marleneanu-and-family-hit-hard-by-flooding-losing-car-damaging-home/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._