For unknown reasons, New Jersey has one of the highest rates of autism in the country. Until recently, families dealing with this disorder had to suffer in shadows and silence. Filmmaker Lara Stolman’s PBS-aired documentary concerns parents who refused to accept autism as a life-defining set of limitations, and started a swim team known as the "Jersey Hammerheads," composed entirely of young men with autism spectrum disorders. Like many with autism, some of the boys have special problems, some were told they would never learn to talk, and all must overcome awkwardness, self-consciousness, and isolation. One teen worked at a local theater--cleaning carpets and concession stand machines--but needs help filling out resumes, tracking his money, and doing chores that are essential to independent living, such as cooking. Another teen is wracked with body tics and Tourette’s syndrome, leading to outbursts of profanity and moments of violence, such as punching holes in doors and walls. Outings must be carefully planned. The swim team lets the kids socialize with other special needs teens, which helps them overcome isolation, and gives parents a feeling of empowerment. There are, of course, inevitable disappointments: one teen briefly quits the team, while another is disqualified when he changes his stroke in the middle of a race, costing his team the gold medal. But, overall, this is a poignant and inspiring documentary carrying a powerful message. As one father put it, "You can’t give up on your kid." Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees)
Swim Team
(2016) 100 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.99 w/PPR). PBS Video. SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-5317-0360-8. Volume 33, Issue 3
Swim Team
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