Watermark

What begins as a deceptively simple film develops into a highly introspective look at the role of high school sports in the lives of students, coaches, and parents. Although the focus is on a Michigan high school swim team, it's soon apparent that the lessons learned by all concerned could affect anyone in any sport in any part of the country. The five students interviewed here share feelings about school, sports, competition, training, and their personal lives which have the ring of universality. The second part of the triangle--the coach--is obviously loved by his team and his comments about his role in their lives are quite cogent. Finally, the role of the parents is examined and the film offers some interesting commentary about how parents should not be coaches and the difference between support and pressure. Recently nominated for an Emmy award, this is enthusiastically recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Carlson)