Starting at the Finish Line: The Coach Buehler Story

Starting at the Finish Line: The Coach Buehler Story is a poignant documentary from 2010, directed by Amy Unell and starring Terrell Amos, Shane Battier, and Roger Beardmore, among others. The film shines a spotlight on one of the most respected and inspirational coaches not only in the world of track and field but also across the wide spectrum of sports, the legendary Coach Al Buehler.

With an illustrious career that spans over half a century, significantly at Duke University, Coach Al Buehler is renowned for his enduring influence on not just his students’ sporting careers, but on their personal journeys as well. He has long been held in high regards not only for achieving consistent success in athletic competitions but also for instilling in his athletes important life values, such as hard work, discipline, perseverance, and empathy. His profound impact extends beyond the playing field and into their lives, shaping them into powerful people beyond their sporting potential - truly emblematic of the philosophy of starting at the finish line.

The documentary is a touching tribute, capturing this athlete whisperer's journey and influence. His story unfolds through personal anecdotes shared by a multitude of past athletes, peers, and contemporaries who have had the privilege of knowing the coach personally. Notably, the film includes interviews with renowned athletes such as Terrell Amos and Shane Battier, whose lives have been significantly impacted by Coach Buehler.

Shane Battier, a retired professional basketball player and a proverbial underdog that Coach Al Buehler took under his wing, soon rose to prominence as an NBA star. Terrell Amos offers a compelling perspective on what it is like to be coached by Buehler and how his influence transcends the realm of athletics into personal growth and self-discovery.

The film does a stunning job at engaging the audience, regardless of their familiarity with track and field or sports in general. Instead of being just a retelling of Buehler’s life and career, Starting at the Finish Line is more a collection of life lessons and principles weaved together by Buehler's story. It serves to inspire and uplift, to demonstrate the power of a great mentor and motivator. Through both triumphant times and challenging periods, the perseverance and resilience Buehler infused in his athletes become evident, portraying the true spirit of sports, and of life itself.

Roger Beardmore, another interviewee, beautifully captures Buehler's philosophy, "Coach didn't just train athletes. He built men and women of character." This documentary shows how Buehler's principles guided his athletes on and off the track. His coaching not only honed their athletic skills but, more importantly, helped them grow into leaders who would later excel in various spheres of life. The film captures these elements effortlessly, providing insight into the greatness of a person who has truly devoted himself to the upliftment of others.

Staying true to the documentary approach, the film incorporates archived footage, interviews, personal narratives, photographs, and public records to paint an honest and compelling portrayal of Buehler. The minimalist yet effective production values used in the documentary further allows the audience to concentrate on the profound insights and message encapsulated in Buehler's story.

In a nutshell, Starting at the Finish Line: The Coach Buehler Story is much more than a sports documentary. It's a tale of triumph, resilience, empathy, and enduring influence that Coach Al Buehler has had on his athletes and the world of sports. It's a narrative about not just winning races, but winning at life as well. Whether one is sports-enthusiast or not, this film offers universal lessons in perseverance, goal-setting, and a holistic approach to personal development. The Coach Buehler Story is truly a testament to a man whose life stands as an example to us all.