Ones to Watch: Joe Kovacs, shot put

Joe Kovacs is a big Pennsylvania guy who is just a little mama’s boy and has her to thank for his Olympic dream in the shot put.

“I came from a really small high school, so we didn’t have track,” said Kovacs. “We didn’t have a throwing ring. We didn’t have a throws coach. So it started with me spray-painting a ring into our parking lot, and then ultimately my mom became my coach.”

Kovacs went to Bethlehem Catholic in Eastern Pennsylvania. From there, it was on to Penn State and now the international stage. Every step of the way, his coach “mom” has been by his side.

“My father passed away when I was young, when I was seven years old, and actually my grandmother passed away the day after, so it was a one-two punch for my family,” said Kovacs. “It just grew my mom and I closer together.”

For Rio, his sights are set high.

“There's no greater feeling than wearing the USA jersey and especially raising the flag after winning a championship,” he said. “Putting that flag over your shoulders, walking around the track, knowing you have victory, that's the best feeling, and I'm looking forward to it.”

Cox Media Group