ALAMOSA – The firstever authorized biography of Adams State University’s legendary coach Joe I. Vigil is now available at the Narrow Gauge Bookstore Coop, located off the corner of State and Main Streets in Alamosa.

The 320-page book, titled Chasing Excellence: The Remarkable Life and Inspiring Vigilosophy of Coach Joe I. Vigil, is an intimate look at Vigil’s life, from his birth in Antonito to modest upbringing on the south side of Alamosa and eventual rise to the pinnacle of Olympic glory.

Vigil coached at Adams State from 1965 to 1993, amassing a record of 3,014-175 (a winning percentage of .942) and coached 19 national champion teams, 425 All Americans and 87 individual national champions. He has also coached 22 Olympians during his career.

The book, written by former Valley Courier editor and Alamosa native Pat Melgares, sells for $19.95. The Narrow Gauge Bookstore is the only retailer in the San Luis Valley currently selling the book.

“This book is not just about remarkable athletic and coaching success,” Melgares said. “It’s about how Coach Vigil developed into a compassionate human being, dedicated to service and life-long learning. He credits his success to his upbringing in Alamosa, Adams State and the San Luis Valley.” For more information, go to www.soulsticepublishing.com.