For Father’s Day, we’re spotlighting some of the best—and worst—sports movie Dad moments. These films highlight the strengths and flaws that every Dad can relate to. From game day meltdowns to heartfelt redemptions, they capture the emotional rollercoaster of being a sports Dad.
Kicking and Screaming (2005)
Phil Weston is a family man who just wants to see his son, Sam, succeed. Phil’s father, Buck, coaches Sam’s little league soccer team. Buck, who used to bench and humiliate Phil as a child, has Sam traded to another team. Sam’s new team is winless and coachless, so Phil volunteers to coach the team. In a battle of father and son, Phil becomes the version of his Dad that he once resented – angry, manic and even benching his own son. His obsession peaks when he gives an unhinged pregame speech to the team.
By the end, Phil realizes he took it too far. Sam, who sat the bench all season, becomes a key player in their ultimate victory.
Phil apologizes to his Dad, an assistant coach, his son and the team. He serves as a reminder to stay true to yourself and focus on what matters in youth sports—and to lay off the caffeine.
Cheaper by the Dozen (2003)
Up next is Tom Baker (Steve Martin), who relocates his family of 14 to a new town for a new coaching job. His children resent him and tensions rise quickly at the new Baker household. Tom’s ambition causes friction, especially with his oldest son, Charlie, who calls him out for being selfish.
As time goes on, the chaos only continues. Tom eventually resigns from his coaching job to focus on his family.
Tom reminds us that being present is more important than any job title or trophy. Whether you have one kid or 12, showing up matters.
The Game Plan (2007)
Joe Kingman (Dwayne Johnson), a superstar quarterback, is thrown into fatherhood when 8-year-old Peyton shows up at his door. At first, he’s careless—leaving her behind at a nightclub—and struggles to reconcile his celebrity lifestyle with parenting.
