TABLE OF CONTENTS

"What’s interesting about it, and personally rewarding, is to see the patience and the interplay among the throwers," he continues. "Even though the meets themselves generate competition within each age group, there is a sense of perspective during the meet which allows for differences and a genuine exchange of advice on technique and training."

The impact of the series is not just in terms of PR’s and medals. "I’ve had feedback from parents on how much they appreciate the atmosphere that exists within the group," says Chamberas.  "Their son or daughter never feels threatened or self-conscious while participating, unlike other competitive team situations that have been demanding, critical and full of pressure. They tell me that the fact that they are in a very supportive environment is very meaningful and worthwhile for their self esteem."

Chelmsford High offers a unique environment for the throwers, with many an impromptu spectator drawn to the goings-on. "Often we are throwing from areas that are adjacent to the outdoor basketball, tennis, and in-line hockey courts, says Chamberas. "It’s really cool to see the spectators of these activities turn their attention to the hammer, shot, discus, javelin and weight.  Youth in particular are seeing these implements and these ‘type’ of people probably for the first time in their life.  In some cases, they will wander over or drag mom or dad to have a closer look.  Then of course, they proceed to ask, ‘What’s this?’, ‘How heavy is that?’ or ‘Can I lift it?’."

Competing together on a regular basis makes for a tightly knit community. A Twilight regular is now serving in Iraq. The young man remains on the group’s mailing list as a way of saying they are, "expecting him back soon, safe and sound."

Chamberas derives great satisfaction from the camaraderie that prevails within the group. "It is obvious to me," he says, "that this is becoming more than a throwing group.  When I see fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, college classmates and teammates, coaches and athletes, uncles and aunts, and grandfathers and grandmothers, literally coming together in the ring or on the runway under a common bond...to experience and enjoy themselves through the art of throwing - then it is indeed worth the effort and preparation to see this happen."

I asked Jim about the barriers others might face in following his footsteps and starting their own throws club or series.

"First I would say, ‘Why not?’, he answers. "I have found some obstacles can be overcome, some cannot. Don’t sell the potential of an idea short until you’ve exhausted all the possibilities and have looked at as many creative options as possible."

"If then it doesn’t seem feasible, look for something out there to attend and be part of," he continues. "Don’t give up the search to throw.  If you do, you will hibernate even further and you will regret it.  Get involved in Masters events, state senior games, local or regional programs like our own, or even create an informal throws group if you can arrange a time and place. If we already know that throwers come in all sizes, in all skill levels, and at all ages, then we should have as our credo: to throw as far as we can, wherever we can, for as long as we can. Hopefully it’s grass roots programs around the country that can somehow put something out there
for throwers to get attached to again or for the first time, that will somehow make a difference."