This page was created on May 9, 2005
This page was last updated on May 13, 2005

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In the midst of all this hilarity, there is a message regarding fathers and sons that gives the flick its most redeeming quality. Through his ups and downs, Phil realizes that it’s not about beating his dad. It’s more about gaining his dad’s blessing. The story of Jacob and Esau in the Bible shows in powerful detail the length those brothers went through to gain the blessing of their father. This film is not nearly as tragic as that story, but the message is similar.

Additionally, we see how Buck’s arrogance, pride, and constant public and private humiliation have damaged Phil’s life. We end up feeling sorry for Phil as he struggles to prove that to his dad that he’s good enough to coach this winning team. It’s really not about the team. Phil is trying to prove to his dad that he’s good enough, period! Many sons wrestle with the sense of feeling “good enough” for their fathers who’ve put high and lofty expectations upon them not only in the world of sports but in life in general. Many dads will see this film and possibly be convicted and challenged because the relationship between Buck and Phil mirrors their relationship with their own sons. The words of Ephesians 6:4 (“Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath…”) come to mind.

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