Watch The Long Green Line

The Long Green Line is a 2008 documentary that follows legendary track coach Joe Newton as he leads his team to the Illinois state championship for the 23rd time. The film, directed by Matthew Arnold, is a captivating and inspiring look at one of the most successful high school coaches in America and his quest to mold young athletes into champions.

The film takes us through the entire season, starting with the team's first practice in the hot August sun and ending with the state championship meet in November. We see Newton's intense coaching style in action as he pushes his runners to their limits in grueling workouts and closely monitors their progress throughout the season.

But The Long Green Line is more than just a sports documentary. It's a portrait of a man who has dedicated his life to coaching and mentoring young people. We see how much his athletes respect and admire him and how much he cares about their well-being both on and off the track.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is the relationship between Newton and his assistant coach Charlie Kern. Kern is a former student of Newton's who has followed in his mentor's footsteps and become a successful coach in his own right. The dynamic between the two men is fascinating to watch as they work together to shape the team into a championship contender.

The Long Green Line also delves into some of the challenges facing high school athletes today. We see one runner struggling with a serious injury and another dealing with academic and personal issues that are affecting his performance on the track. Newton and his coaching staff work tirelessly to help these athletes overcome their obstacles and achieve their full potential.

Another highlight of the film is the incredible footage of the state championship meet. The tension is palpable as the team races against tough competition from other high schools around Illinois. The film captures the excitement and drama of the event as the runners push themselves to the limit in pursuit of victory.

Throughout the film, we also hear from former athletes who have been impacted by Newton's coaching. They speak about how much he has taught them not just about running, but about life. We see how his influence has helped many of them become successful in their careers and personal lives.

Overall, The Long Green Line is a compelling and inspirational documentary that will appeal to anyone who loves sports or appreciates the power of a great coach. It's a testament to the work of Joe Newton and the many young athletes he has inspired over the years.

The Long Green Line is a 2008 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.