The film delves deep into the hearts and souls of players, families, and coaches. These are outliers who have forged a bond and a love for each other and the community through the game.
In a sense, it’s all they have. Through tHeir eyes, we witness their struggles and victories, their dreams of success and crushing failures, and paint a portrait of the community that is full of heart, hope, and heartbreak.
THE WOLF PACK
THE STRENGTH OF THE PACK
The Venice High School girls’ team, AKA “The Wolf Pack,” adopts a unique approach inspired by Wolf Pack Theory. The theory emphasizes interdependence and collective strength, mirroring the traits of wild wolves. Their connection to the universe and mutual gratitude are distinctive, fostering an inspiring team spirit. This unorthodox method has led them to become City Champions for the first time in the school’s centennial history.
Forever the underdogs, their greatest challenge will be to beat “the school on the hill” their arch-rivals who literally look down on the Venice community. Palisades Charter High is an affluent and predominantly white team that stands between Venice and their long sought-after State Championship.
JOHANNA
STRUGGLE TO STRENGTH TO STRUGGLE
Johanna, a Venice High alumna, grew up in Mar Vista Gardens and faced the harsh realities of life in one of America’s most notorious projects.
Despite the barriers of poverty and the responsibilities that came too early, Johanna found solace and purpose in football, though she could never afford to play club soccer.
Her dedication to her family, particularly in caring for her younger sister while their undocumented parents worked tirelessly, is a testament to her strength and selflessness.
Johanna’s journey is also a deeply personal battle with mental health, highlighted by her struggles with an eating disorder and a recent suicide attempt. Her commitment to coaching at VBFC reflects her desire to offer guidance and support to kids, finding a semblance of peace and fulfillment in the youth.
ALEX
TORN BY THE GAME
Alex, a crucial member of the Wolf Pack, faces a personal crisis, having lost her passion for soccer due to her father’s overbearing involvement and preference for her brother. Despite these challenges, she remains a raw and honest figure within the team, navigating complex personal and team dynamics as they stand on the brink of adulthood.
THE OAKWOOD ELDERS
DEFEnders of history
Laddie Davis and the Oakwood Elders are formidable figures in the Oakwood neighborhood, fighting against gentrification and the misuse of Historic Oakwood Park. Their efforts to preserve the park’s legacy and protect the VBFC youth from harm underscore the broader challenges of systemic racism and community displacement.
CHAKA
A LEGACY OF BATTLES
Chaka Forman, the guide of the Venice High Girls team and VBFC coach, inherits a rich legacy of activism. Son of Civil Rights hero, James Forman, Chaka’s coaching philosophy is deeply influenced by principles of unity and collective reliance, based on Wolf Theory.
Under his guidance, the team has won five City Championships,
LUCKY
A COMPLEX LEGACY
Lucky, father to VBFC youth player Joshua and a Shoreline Crip, embodies the complexities of life in a changing community. His charismatic yet introspective nature sheds light on the evolving dynamics of his neighborhood and the enduring impact of his gang affiliation.
A CREATIVE HEART
Tim Walsh, celebrated for his creativity and emotional connection with the youth, is a key figure in VBFC. With a diverse playing career and a vision for the club that challenges the pay-to-play norm, Tim dreams of creating a nurturing environment for young athletes. His genuine passion for soccer as a force for good defines his role within the club.
TIM
JUAN
A LIFE ON THE STREET
Juan’s life story is marked by challenges, from being sent back to Mexico to escape gang violence to his struggles with homelessness following a personal tragedy. Despite these setbacks, his experiences contribute to the rich tapestry of the VBFC community.
BILLY
PRESSURE VS PASSION
Billy’s relationship with soccer is a double-edged sword, providing both a therapeutic outlet and a source of stress. His journey highlights the emotional toll of competitive sports and mental health and the challenges faced by young athletes in pursuing their dreams.