Guest post written by Robert Maxwell.
Few older brothers are fortunate enough to experience the thrill of watching their younger sibling become a nationally and internationally ranked athlete. Fewer still live in a place as remote as Manitoulin Island. My 15-year-old brother, Joseph is one of those rare sort who’s made both true in my case. That’s one reason I’m so proud of him.
For the last couple years, I’ve watched Joe combine relentless training, diligent study, and unbending determination to set national records in both shot put and discus, and become Canada’s undisputed under-16 champion in both events. That’s enough to make any big brother proud, but Joe didn’t stop there. He went on to win the Jack Stenhouse Award for the best male athlete at the Canadian Championships in August, 2013. All amazing achievements to be sure, but it’s not Joe’s triumphs alone that make me feel so honoured to be his brother.
Mostly, it’s his continued humility and gratitude to his wonderful family and friends on Manitoulin Island and beyond, who have given him so much support over the years. Athletes like Joseph don’t succeed by accident. Sure, it takes loads of hard work to reach the top of their game, but I have no doubt it has at least as much to do with the people around them. If not for our super helpful and supportive parents, and a community who cheered him on with every step, I’m sure Joseph wouldn’t be where he is today. That’s one reason he’s now taking steps to share his athletic knowledge with others.
At 15, Joseph already has his own website, dedicated to keeping his growing list of followers up-to-date on his athletic endeavours. Even more remarkable, he’s written a video-enriched eBook designed to help other young throwers succeed in the same way he has. You can check it out for yourself at www.josephmaxwellthrowing.com/spintowin
So, what does all this have to do with life on Manitoulin? Lots. As a born and bred islander, I really want to see this place thrive. And thriving isn’t just about having nice beaches, forest trails, and bed and breakfasts. It’s about the rare, exceptional people who call this island home, and enrich it by choosing to live and achieve here. I’m proud to count my brother among them.
You can follow Joseph’s latest activities on his official Facebook page, www.facebook.com/josephmaxwellthrowing. Sign up for his email newsletter in the top right corner of his website, www.josephmaxwellthrowing.com, for indepth updates.
Very, very interesting.
Rick, he comes from a family of very talented individuals 🙂
Thanks for sharing his story! I always wanted to take a trip to Manitoulin!
Victoria, come visit!!!
What a terrific article. Congratulations to both the writer and the thrower. Best wishes for continued success to both of you.
A very inspirational post, I wish Joseph continued success. One of these days we may make it to Manitoulin, we had a trip planned a few years ago but had to cancel it.
Judy, if you end up visiting the Island, let me know. I’ll give you a list of must-see places and events!
What a great big brother to share such an inspirational and uplifting story about his sibling. It is stories like this that need to be shared on the news every day, not the garbage that is now. All the best to both brothers 🙂
Suz
Hi Suz! Thanks for your encouragement! Glad you enjoyed the post 🙂
Ahhh! Suz, so true!!!
Love this! My son is a small town boy (a jumper) competing nationally. I think small tight communities raise great athletes and amazing people. Love watching Track & Field so going to follow him.
Couldn’t agree more!
Kim, I thought of you when Robert wrote this. Robert, Kim’s son is an athlete as well and Kim can totally relate to this post 🙂
How great that you shared this story! I think one of the best things about living in places like Manitoulin Island is the sense of community, something that’s really hard to find in a big city. I wish Joseph continued success.
Thanks for your kind words Dani! Manitoulin certainly is a wonderful place 🙂
That’s so true, Dani. The one thing that is certainly true about living in a small town is the sense of community. 🙂
I have to be honest, before your blog I have never heard of Mantioulin Island, but now I’m anxious to check it out. Joseph sounds like he has a strong head on his shoulders, congrats to him!
Thanks Randa! Manitoulin certainly is worth checking out 🙂
Thanks, Randa! To be honest, when I lived in Toronto and Montreal, I never even knew Manitoulin existed either! 😉
Wishing all the best to Joseph and Robert, its so heartwarming to see such dedication for competitive sport, community and family; and truly inspiring both on your website and facebook!
Manitoulin Island is obviously full of WIN, with such a wonderful community! 🙂 Once its less cold around here, I have to make plans to come visit you and your family Christine. <3
Aww! So awesome, Aeryn! Can’t wait for you guys to visit us and experience the magic of Manitoulin!