In this film based on a true story, Glenn Shrevelow (Josh Brolin) is an elite track star at his high school, following in the footsteps of his demanding father, Martin (James Brolin). Glenn does whatever it takes to satisfy the expectations of both his father and his coach. As he trains for a chance at the Olympics, the pressure builds, and Glenn succumbs to the temptation of steroids. He eventually pays a heavy price, despite the intervention of fellow student Lisa Karsh (Mariska Hargitay).