Sports documentaries are a fascinating genre that allows viewers to get an inside look at the lives of athletes, coaches, and teams. With the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, sports fans have access to a wide range of documentaries that cover a variety of sports and stories. From riveting tales of triumph to heartbreaking defeats, there is something for every sports enthusiast to enjoy. In this post, we will explore some of the top sports documentaries to watch on Netflix.
1. “The Last Dance” (2020)
One of the most talked-about sports documentaries in recent years, “The Last Dance” chronicles the career of basketball legend Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls’ quest for a sixth NBA championship. The documentary features never-before-seen footage from the team’s 1997-1998 season, as well as interviews with key players and coaches. Whether you’re a basketball fan or not, “The Last Dance” is a captivating look at one of the greatest athletes of all time.
2. “Sunderland ‘Til I Die” (2018)
For soccer fans, “Sunderland ‘Til I Die” offers a behind-the-scenes look at the struggles of Sunderland AFC, a once-prominent football club that finds itself in the depths of the English football league system. The documentary follows the team through the highs and lows of a tumultuous season, capturing the passion and dedication of both players and fans. With its emotional storytelling and intimate portrayal of the beautiful game, “Sunderland ‘Til I Die” is a must-watch for any soccer enthusiast.
3. “Cheer” (2020)
“Cheer” takes viewers inside the world of competitive cheerleading, following the athletes of Navarro College as they strive for victory at the national championships. The documentary explores the physical and emotional challenges faced by these young men and women, as well as the dedication and teamwork required to succeed in the high-stakes world of cheerleading. With its compelling characters and high-flying stunts, “Cheer” is a gripping and inspirational watch for sports fans of all ages.
4. “The Dawn Wall” (2018)
Rock climbing may not be a mainstream sport, but “The Dawn Wall” will make you appreciate the incredible feats of athleticism and courage involved in the sport. The documentary follows climbers Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson as they attempt to scale the notoriously difficult Dawn Wall of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. With stunning cinematography and heart-pounding moments of triumph and defeat, “The Dawn Wall” is a gripping exploration of human determination and the power of the human spirit.
5. “Losers” (2019)
“Losers” explores the concept of losing in sports, focusing on athletes who have experienced heartbreaking defeats and setbacks in their careers. Each episode of the documentary profiles a different athlete or team, from a boxer who was knocked out in the first round of a championship fight to a French figure skater who missed out on the gold medal by a fraction of a point. Through these personal stories of loss and resilience, “Losers” offers a thought-provoking and emotional look at the complexities of competition and what it means to be a true sportsman.
6. “Coach Snoop” (2018)
“Coach Snoop” follows the journey of iconic rapper Snoop Dogg as he coaches a youth football team in his hometown of Los Angeles. The documentary explores Snoop’s passion for mentorship and community involvement, as well as the impact that sports can have on young people’s lives. From overcoming personal obstacles to fostering teamwork and leadership skills, “Coach Snoop” is an inspiring and heartwarming tale of the transformative power of sports.
7. “Ice Guardians” (2016)
For fans of hockey, “Ice Guardians” offers an inside look at the role of enforcers in the sport, exploring the physical and mental demands of being a hockey enforcer. The documentary profiles some of the toughest players in the NHL, delving into their experiences on and off the ice and the sacrifices they make to protect their teammates and enforce the rules of the game. With its hard-hitting action and candid interviews, “Ice Guardians” is a must-watch for hockey fans who want to understand the true grit and resilience of the sport.
8. “Formula 1: Drive to Survive” (2019)
“Formula 1: Drive to Survive” takes viewers behind the scenes of the high-stakes world of Formula 1 racing, following the drivers, teams, and management as they compete in the most prestigious motorsport series in the world. The documentary offers a glimpse into the drama and excitement of the racing season, from the intense rivalries between teams to the personal struggles and triumphs of the drivers themselves. With its adrenaline-pumping races and intense rivalries, “Formula 1: Drive to Survive” is a must-watch for motorsport enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike.
9. “The Battered Bastards of Baseball” (2014)
“The Battered Bastards of Baseball” tells the unlikely story of the Portland Mavericks, an independent minor league baseball team that captured the hearts of fans and defied the odds to become a symbol of underdog resilience. The documentary follows the team’s colorful owner, Bing Russell, and his eclectic group of players as they take on the established baseball establishment and prove that passion and determination can triumph over money and politics. With its infectious spirit and feel-good message, “The Battered Bastards of Baseball” is a heartwarming tribute to the power of love for the game.
10. “First Team: Juventus” (2018)
For soccer fans, “First Team: Juventus” offers an exclusive look at one of the most successful football clubs in the world, Juventus FC. The documentary follows the team through the ups and downs of a tumultuous season, from the highs of winning the Serie A title to the heartbreak of losing in the Champions League final. With its intimate access to the players, coaches, and management, “First Team: Juventus” is a fascinating and insightful look at the inner workings of a top-tier football club.
In conclusion, sports documentaries offer a unique and compelling window into the world of sports, allowing viewers to experience the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat from the comfort of their own home. With so many great documentaries available on Netflix, there is something for every sports fan to enjoy. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan, a soccer enthusiast, or a motorsport junkie, there is a documentary out there that will captivate and inspire you. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the top sports documentaries on Netflix today!
