Lessons We Can Take From Classic Sports Movies

Motivation, Inspiration, Determination.
What do all of these adjectives have in common? Their driving force behind our nation’s most admirable sports teams.

It’s no secret that sports have a great influence on every age. From grandparents to grandchildren, we pass sports interests down through the generations.

Even non-sports fans can take lessons and inspiration from famous sports movies. The true stories and unbelievable passion that athletes put into their work is unreal. There is a reason we use so many sports references when speaking of success and overcoming obstacles.

Check out these famous titles below and what you can learn from them:

Baseball

A League of Their Own

“It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. The hard… is what makes it great”

This movie is based on the true story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). It is about a league of female baseball players who come together to save the MLB. The true story behind the movie is riveting and can have quite the impression on young women. Watching this movie, I have learned the importance of strength and equality in both sports and everyday life.

1) Always follow your dreams – to their extent

2) Don’t let people use the excuse “but you’re a girl”

3) There’s no crying in baseball

4) Stay positive – it’s all in your attitude

There are many movies based on true stories of professional athletes, but this has to be my favorite. It is, in fact, one of the only famous women’s sports movies I have come across and watched countless times. Their struggles during World War II and competing in Major League Sports is incredible. Women are capable of balancing with their emotions, family, and career brilliantly. This movie inspired me to put 100% into every task I am given and know it has/will for young women everywhere.

Tom Hanks plays a fantastic baseball coach and I wouldn’t want to see it any other way.

Field of Dreams

“If you build it, he will come.”

An Iowa corn farmer hears a voice tell him to build a baseball field on his property. He had been waiting forever to find a way to accomplish his dream. Without warning, his dreams found their way to him. A group of Chicago White Sox players who were banned from playing in the 1919 World Series appear on the field.

1) Don’t put your visions on standby, pursue them

2) Teamwork goes a long way

3) When others don’t understand your vision, show them

4) No risk, no reward

After all, the field served a bigger purpose. Watch the movie to see this powerful story about Ray Kinsella and the Chicago White Sox.

Football

The Blind Side

“Don’t worry where I am. I’ll tell you when I get there.”

Sandra Bullock plays the role of an upper-class woman with a seemingly perfect family. She comes across a young man, Michael, who needs help and is full of potential. She takes him into her home and makes him a part of the family – no questions asked. The respect and admiration of others goes unrecognized until they realize how amazing Michael has become.

Based on a true story, The Blind Side left my heart full of kindness and appreciation for the family who changed their lives direction for an outsider.

1) Everyone learns at their own pace, in their own way

2) Allow for the unexpected in your life – don’t fear change

3) Family will always have your back

4) Stand up for others when you know it’s right

This movie is an absolute must-see. It is shown in schools around the country and most everyone I know has seen it. The true story of Michael Oher and the Tuohy family is sure to touch your heart and (maybe) make you want to become more involved in the community. The impact one person can have on someones life is incredible.

Hockey

Miracle

“I’m not looking for the best players, Craig. I’m looking for the right ones.”

During a very difficult time, the US Hockey Team had a lot to prove for their country. Together: A Coach, A Team, and A Dream were what it took to overcome obstacles and *spoiler alert* achieve victory. Without Brooks this team may never have achieved such greatness. There are so many lessons we can learn from the dedication of this team, but below are my absolute favorites.

1) Give 110% to achieve your goals and find success

2) When the going gets tough… keep going!

3) Be a leader and see others for their strengths

4) Always push yourself to the limit (you won’t regret it)

I could watch this movie over-and-over again. I never tire of the passion, immense dedication, and confidence of the 1980 US Olympic Team. A great coach can build a winning team. There are many lessons to be taken from this movie and I encourage ALL to enjoy it.

Mystery Alaska

“Two things we’ve always had in Mystery is our dignity and our illusions. I suggest we cling to both.”

Similar to Miracle, Mystery Alaska inspires the power of teamwork, dedication, and heart. A great hockey team is built on so much more than skill, but many overlook that. This movie is everything you’ve wanted in a sports movie and more. Mystery vs. the New York Rangers is one of the best hockey match-ups you have seen yet.

1) Take on even the most difficult challenges

2) Appreciate everyone on your “team”

3) Your hometown may be your greatest cheerleader

4) Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone

This movie will leave you with a passion to achieve more and encourage you never to underestimate the lesser-known team. You may experience goosebumps through the duration of this movie.

Wow, I want to go watch them all again… RIGHT NOW!