The Throwing Circle: Lessons Learned in the Ring about Life, Success, and the Power of Coach-Athlete Relationships

When a coach's and athlete's paths cross, magic can happen.

Luis Rivera was an undiscovered gem of an athlete walking through his small college cafeteria.

Dr. Charles J. Infurna was a young, inquisitive volunteer coach still trying to find his way in the profession.

Together, their partnership weathered storms and grew to unparalleled success in the hammer throwing ring, transforming each of their lives in the process--including long after Rivera graduated and left track and field.

Readers are invited to witness the intricate dynamics of the coach-athlete relationship, where trust, respect, and mutual understanding lay the foundation for greatness.

Dr. Infurna vulnerably shares his coaching journey, from a difficult first job that piqued his interest in getting the most out of his athletes to the challenge of coaching a national-caliber thrower like Rivera. Along the way, Dr. Infurna had to test his own assumptions and self-confidence in finding what it meant to be a "lightgiver."

With a memoirist's touch, Dr. Infurna unveils layers of growth in each chapter, personally and professionally, and shows the evolution of his coaching philosophy, shaped by trials, failures, and ultimately, triumphs. Dr. Infurna combines a coach's empathy and a researcher's curiosity with a sportsman's passion to unveil the profound influence of the coach-athlete dynamic on athletic performance, offering insights that transcend the boundaries of sport.

Insightful and deeply inspiring, The Throwing Circle is a testament to the power of mentorship, resilience, and the extraordinary possibilities that emerge when fate and dedication intertwine.