The Long Green Line. DVD. approx. 1:30 hrs. Long Green Line. 2008. $19.95.
Gr 8 Up—This moving documentary traces the 2005 season of the cross-country running team at York Public High School in Elmhurst, IL, but it is about far more than long-distance running. Ultimately, it is the inspiring story of Joe Newton, a coach whose 50 plus years of experience has established one of the most winning high school teams in America. Despite the fact that only the top seven athletes on a given team compete, York’s program has over 200 participants. Each of these students commit to the sport for the chance to work with Newton. The coach teaches the boys that they should do their best, be on time and “it’s nice to be great but far greater to be nice.” The 2005 season was of particular importance because it marked the team’s 25th state title in 50 years. The film follows the team as they prepare for the state finals. Along the way, they persevere through many obstacles, including the mid-season expulsion of two of the team’s top seven runners after they caused over one million dollars in arson damage. The director effectively incorporates graphics to demonstrate the team’s organizational structure and how scores are tallied and tracked. This documentary will have wonderful applications for middle and high school athletic programs, as well as for any program where team and community building is a central goal.—Vincent M. Livoti, Kresge Center for Teaching Resources, Lesley University, Cambridge, MA

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