I’ve been wrestling since I was six-years-old, varsity since the 7th grade.
I’d like to think I’ve had a good career.
I lost my dad suddenly, my freshmen year right after counties.
A lot of kids might have had a hard time moving forward, but I knew I had too since my dad was my biggest fan.
A week after my father died I went to Virginia Beach and wrestled in the NHSCA Nationals.
My coach didn’t think this was a good idea being it was so soon after my dad’s death.
But I went, and I became a 3x All-American – I did it for him.
This year started out rough for me as dealing with my dad’s death got to me, more than ever before.
A lot of people wrote me off, saying I was through being an elite wrestler.
I knew I couldn’t quit.
I worked too hard, and that wouldn’t have been what my dad would have wanted me to do – so I worked harder, and I came back strong.
For the third consecutive year, I am heading to Albany to wrestle at States.
It is a great feeling putting on that Section XI state singlet.
Winning it all this year would be great.
But to me, it’s not what it’s about.
This year it is more about me fighting through my fears and making a strong comeback.
Because I know my dad would want me to do “Whatever It Takes” to keep moving forward.
Anthony Cirillo
3x State Qualifier
3x All-American
2x All-State
Rocky Point High School
W.I.T.
Photo’s by Ray Passaro www.lisportsshots.com
They call it the greatest sport on earth for a reason.
It just took me 26 years to figure out why.
READ THE 1st CHAPTER
Every parent should get this book. It is a quick read but be sure to block out 3 hours or so because you won’t be able to stop.
A book that changed the way I look at life. My wife and two 14-year-old boys have also read the book and we all agree that it is not only an inspiring story but one that is life changing. A very quick read and one that is difficult to put down. This is a must read for anyone that has kids. It is a reminder of just how precious life is. You do not have to be a high school wrestling fan to enjoy this book.
As a coach, a father, a husband, and just someone always striving to have a positive effect, this book hit me on a million different levels. I bought this book because it had a wrestling title but I did not have great expectations. Like most others who reviewed this book, I could not put it down and it had a profound impact on me. After reading this book I regularly find myself now moving beyond the thought of sacrificing one part of my life for another, and simply saying “I want both”. Thank you, John, for writing this book!
This will be my next gift to my entire family and friends.
Tom Magnani HHH wrestling 1979- 2010
I couldn’t put this book down from start to finish. It was beyond inspiring. An amazing story of love, dedication, hope and the will to never give up. I am proud to have read his families story.
on March 20, 2013
I have known the Passaro family for many years through competing against them and trying to prepare my kids to wrestle against them (a very daunting task) but I did not know about the tragic events that they have gone through until I read this book. I started the book and completed it in one sitting, I could not put it down. As a parent of three boys myself I totally felt the pain that the author was going through, the struggle to help his daughter while trying to keep his family with a modicum of normalcy was gripping. This book is an inspiration to anybody who knows how to love their family and would move heaven and earth to save them if they were in trouble. I highly recommend this book, whether you’re a parent or not, this story will find a place in your heart. Bravo to you and your family Mr. Passaro it has been a pleasure and an honor to hear your story!!!
on March 17, 2013
You need to read it! It’s a great book for anyone!
“Amazing awaits when you work hard enough.”
“Champions muster up a little more.”
“There is something inside of you that is greater than any obstacle.”
Great book for athletes, students, parents, teachers, coaches. Great book for all….hopefully, each will be as inspired to share it with young people so they can be equally inspired. Many blessings to John and to his family…Miracles are coming…you just have to believe.
John Passaro 
Not only would your Dad be proud, many people in Rocky Point are amazed by your wrestling career. Including me. Good luck at states!
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