37 Good Sports Movies For Children To Watch

Image: Shutterstock

While some children enjoy watching cartoons and superhero movies, others are fans of sports movies. If your child likes the latter, we bring you a list of sports movies for kids that they can enjoy and learn valuable lessons such as determination, perseverance, and hardships. The real-life episodes of athletes could charge them to never give up on something they believe in. Also, these movies are so light-hearted and fun that even you would like to watch them with your little ones. Read on our list that includes Bugs Bunny’s games, biopics of famous athletes, and more.

37 Sports Movies For Kids

Sports movies for kids inspire young minds with themes of teamwork, perseverance, and chasing dreams. A paper published in the Global Pediatric Health journal examined 44 popular sports films and found common positive themes such as teamwork, overcoming obstacles, setting realistic goals, responsibility, and academics, which coaches, trainers, and parents use to educate and motivate children. The study also found that these films highlight the importance of preparation, family support, and maintaining a positive attitude (1). The following films have engaging stories and teach valuable life lessons, making them both entertaining and educational for children.

Movies On Perseverance And Triumph

Sports films celebrating perseverance and triumph can inspire children with their uplifting stories. These movies showcase how courage, resilience, and an unwavering spirit can help overcome even the most challenging obstacles.

1. The Blind Side

The Blind Side is a movie about resilience, compassion, and love starring Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron and Lily Collins. It takes us through the life of a homeless African American boy accepted into a Caucasian family who nurtures him to excel in his football career. 

Available on: Prime video
IMDb: 7.6/10

Point to consider

Any child can succeed when given love, patience, and a fair chance in life. Like the lines from Michael Lewis, the author of the biography, The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game on the real Michael Oher, states, “It’s easy to beat up a kid. The hard thing is to build him up.”

2. Rudy

Image: IMDb

Arguably one of the best sports biographical films, Rudy is a true story of the life of Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger played by Sean Astin. Amidst people saying he is too small for football, Rudy dribbles his way to Notre Dame and makes his football dreams come true. Rudy inspires young minds with its uplifting story of determination, resilience, and self-belief. 

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 7.5/10

3. Miracle

Based on the true story of Herb Brooks, Miracle is about the driving force behind the US ice hockey team’s victory over the Russian team. Watch this movie, starring Kurt Russell, to relive the moment when history was made. The movie provides both entertainment and valuable life lessons for kids.

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 7.5/10

4. McFarland, USA

Based on a true story, Disney film McFarland USA shows how determination and perseverance win above all. Jim White brings together a group of extraordinary runners that would become one of the best cross country runners, against all odds. McFarland, USA is suitable for kids due to its inspiring themes of perseverance, teamwork, and overcoming adversity.

Available On: Prime video
IMDb: 7.4/10

5. Hoosiers

Hoosiers, starring Gene Hackman and Dennis Hopper, is a 1986 classic. A coach with a troubled past and an alcoholic trainer brings a basketball team to the Indiana State finals rising above expectations. The movie offers valuable lessons on personal growth. 

Available on: Prime video
IMDb: 7.4/10

A nominee of four Academy Awards, The Natural is one of those films about success and failures. It is a mystery-fantasy drama about a man who suddenly appears with his lightning-struck bat to save a drowning team of baseball players. The family-friendly movie also teaches perseverance and sportsmanship through its inspiring storyline.

6. The Natural

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 7.4/10

7. The Express

The inspiring true story follows Ernie Davis’ journey, from the college football ground to becoming the first African American to win the Heisman Trophy. The movie highlights a thrilling journey through history and teaches valuable lessons on determination and integrity.

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 7.2/10

8. Chariots of Fire

Academy Award winner Chariots of Fire is the story of Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams. One running to glorify God and another to challenge class discrimination, they take part in the 1924 Paris Olympics. This movie is about dedication, triumph, resilience, and passion.

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 7.1/10

9. Soul Surfer

Image: IMDb

The true story of perseverance and determination, Soul Surfer is about Bethany Hamilton played by AnnaSophia Robb. Losing an arm to a shark attack didn’t stop Bethany from surfing her away to becoming a surf champion. Soul Surfer inspires young viewers with its powerful message of resilience and overcoming adversity. 

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 7/10

10. Million Dollar Arm

To save his career and his new found company, sports agent J.B. Bernstein, brings players from India to play in a major baseball league. Now there is just one problem- they are cricket players. This movie highlights the power of dreams and hard work and is both educational and entertaining for young viewers.

Available: Hotstar
IMDb: 7/10

11. Happy Gilmore

Happy Gilmore wanted to become a hockey player when he discovered his talent for golf. He has powerful driving skills and a foul-mouthed attitude, which is undesirable for a golf hero. This movie will keep your children glued to the screens with its blend of humor and life lessons on determination and sportsmanship. The performance of Adam Sandler makes it a delightful watch. 

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 7/10

12. Cool Runnings

Inspired by a true story, Cool Runnings teaches us important life lessons through the story of a Jamaican sprinter who coaches a team of four Jamaican bobsledders to become the first Jamaican bobsleigh team of the Winter Olympics 1988. The uplifting movie teaches resilience, friendship, and the power of believing in oneself.

Available on: Hotstar
IMDb: 7/10

13. The Rookie

The Rookie is a Disney sports film based on the life of Jim Morris, starring Dennis Quaid and Rachel Griffiths. This movie is filled with thrilling and exciting moments, as we watch Jim with his high school baseball team, making their way to the major league. The movie offers lessons on following one’s dreams and underscores the value of hard work. 

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 6.9/10

14. Cloud 9

A Disney-Pixar classic and an all-time favorite for most race enthusiasts, Cars is a movie about a race car, Lightning McQueen, who learns the different aspects of friendship and family on his way to the Piston Cup Championship. The animation movie is top-tier and the characters are played by Owen Wilson, Larry the Cable Guy, Paul Newman, and Bonnie Hunt. Cloud 9 is a fun-filled movie that teaches important life lessons on resilience and friendship. 

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 6.4/10

15. Ice Princess

Torn between her mother’s academic expectations and her passion for ice skating, Casey, with the help of her coach, takes secret lessons to conquer the figure skating championship. The movie inspires young minds to chase their dreams. 

Available on: Hotstar
IMDb:6/10

Movies On Friendship and Teamwork

Sports films celebrating friendship and teamwork highlight the power of collaboration, trust, and camaraderie in achieving success. These heartwarming movies can inspire children to value relationships and the strength found in unity both on and off the field.

16. The Sandlot

Considered by many as one of the best baseball movies for kids, The Sandlot shows the story of a young boy, Scott, in a new neighborhood. Scott joins the baseball team and embarks on a rollercoaster of adventures with his new friends. The Sandlot is perfect for kids with its timeless themes of friendship and team building, and the light-hearted humor and relatable characters make it entertaining.

Available on: Prime video
IMDb: 7.8/10

Did you know?

Jim White had rebuilt the boys’ and the girls’ cross country teams which held a streak of attending the state championships for 24 consecutive years. They won nine California State Championships, with five being straight wins.

17. Remember The Titans

Image: IMDb

This Disney classic breaks the racial barriers. Denzel Washington plays Herman Boone, an African American coach of the T. C. Williams High School’s first racially unified football team. Its empowering message of inclusion and respect is perfect for fostering empathy in children.

Available on: Hotstar
IMDb: 7.8/10

18. The Goonies

The Goonies is an adventure film from 1985 that follows a group of young friends on a mission to locate a pirate’s coveted treasure to prevent their houses from being destroyed. Despite not being a conventional sports film, the children employ their athleticism and cooperation to triumph over difficulties and outwit the antagonists, rendering it thrilling and stimulating for youngsters who value sports and teamwork. The Goonies is a thrilling adventure that can spark children’s imagination while promoting teamwork and problem-solving. 

Available on: Amazon
IMDb:7.7/10

19. Surf’s up

This Oscar nominee animated film is about a penguin who participates in the World Surfing Championship and gives us a peek at what goes on behind the scenes. Famous characters are played by Jon Heder, Shia LaBeouf, and Diedrich Bader. Its engaging storyline and vibrant animation make it entertaining and inspirational.

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 6.7/10

20. The Mighty Ducks

Image: IMDb

The Mighty Ducks is a movie about an attorney assigned a case way out of his comfort zone coaching a team of child hockey players. Its age-appropriate themes of growth and teamwork inspire kids while keeping them engaged throughout.

Available: Hotstar
IMDb: 6.6/10

21. Space Jam

Image: IMDb

Although straight out of a child’s imagination, Space Jam managed to be one of the most famous animated sports movies. If your child enjoys basketball and cartoons, this movie is a whole package starring Michael Jordan as himself- the legendary basketball player, Bill Murray and the looney tunes. It blends exciting basketball action with valuable lessons on cooperation and self-belief, and the colorful characters and light-hearted plot ensure it’s a perfect pick for family-friendly entertainment. Get ready for loads of action and laughter! 

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 6.5/10

22. Little Giants

With no experience in football, Dany O’Shea and his daughter form a team of football players and compete against the team of his brother Kevin, A football star. This movie teaches kids the importance of courage, friendship, and believing in themselves. 

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 6.4/10

23. Karate Kid

Karate kid is one of those films that we cannot get enough of. An all-time favorite of both children and adults, this movie talks about a teenage boy who learns karate from martial arts master Mr. Miyagi to defend himself against bullies. The Karate Kid offers valuable lessons in discipline and self-respect.

Available on: Prime video
IMDb: 6.2/10

C.J Cardiac Drop, a blogger and a film enthusiast, recounts his experience of watching Karate Kid with his mother and later with his daughter. He says, “I got a chance to take my daughter to the theater when The Karate Kid was celebrating its 35th Anniversary Limited Engagement in theaters back in 2019. I couldn’t wait to watch this in theaters again. I first saw this film with my mom back in 1984 when I was young in theaters and it forever changed me… So I eagerly jumped at the chance to share that same theater experience with my daughter when it came back on the silver screen (i)!”

24. Angels In The Outfield

Image: IMDb

Roger is a foster kid, who gets the chance to have a family when his favorite losing baseball team begins to rise beyond expectations with the help of his secret angels. It is a heartwarming mix of family-friendly fun and life lessons.

Available on: Prime Video
IMDb: 6.2/10

25. Double Teamed

Image: IMDb

This is based on the real-life story of twins Heidi and Heather Burge and how they become world-renowned basketball players after transferring to a new high school. Double Teamed celebrates sisterhood and provides valuable lessons in overcoming obstacles.

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 5.9/10

26. Underdogs

Image: IMDb

This animated movie is about a shy foosball player, Jake sets out to save his town from the renowned soccer player named Ace, with the help of his foosball table figures who magically come to life. The film’s engaging story can help foster resilience and collaboration in children.

Available on: Netflix
IMDb: 5.8/10

27. Back Of The Net

This 2019 sports movie follows the journey of an American teenager in her newly joined soccer academy on her way to the national tournament. Back of the Net captivates young minds with its engaging storyline and inspiring messages of determination and collaboration. 

Available on: Prime video
IMDb: 5.3/10

28. Air Bud

Image: IMDb

Air Bud is an all-time favorite of most children and adults with its positive messages about friendship and determination. This movie shows the friendship between a boy and a stray dog who is surprisingly gifted with amazing basketball skills. 

Available on: Prime video
IMDb: 5.3/10

29. Space Jam: A New Legacy

Image: IMDb

The tables have turned in this one, as the Looney Tunes help the basketball legend LeBron James with a basketball match to find his son. Starring in this movie are LeBron James, Michael Jordan, and Zendaya. The lively characters and exciting adventures keep kids entertained while encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Available on: Prime video
IMDb: 4.5/10

Movies On Adventure With Life Lessons

Sports films that celebrate adventure blend excitement and inspiration and teach valuable life lessons. They captivate children with their tales of resilience, teamwork, and the pursuit of dreams.

30. Searching for Bobby Fischer

Oscar-winning movie Searching for Bobby Fischer is about a boy named Josh with extraordinary chess skills. He steps into a chess competition with the help of his not-average coach. The movie’s themes of self-discovery and discipline are presented in an age-appropriate way for kids to enjoy and learn from.

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 7.4/10

31. A League Of Their Own

Starring Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, and Madonna, A League of Their Own relays the real-life story of how the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League was founded during World War II and showcases the strength of women in sports.

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 7.3/10

32. Cars

Image: IMDb

A Disney classic and an all-time favorite for most race enthusiasts, cars is a movie about a race car, Lightning McQueen, who learns the different aspects of friendship and family on his way to the Piston Cup Championship. The characters are played by Owen Wilson, Larry the Cable Guy, Paul Newman, and Bonnie Hunt. The movie captivates young minds with its vibrant animation and fun-filled adventure while subtly teaching valuable lessons on determination and friendship.

Available on: Hotstar
IMDb: 7.3/10

33. The Game Plan

Image: IMDb

In this movie, the “Rock” Dwayne Johnson plays a self-absorbed soccer player whose world is turned upside down by the sudden appearance of his eight-year-old daughter, played by Madison Pettis. This family comedy movie might have you giggling at times and reaching for the tissues at others. With valuable lessons on family bonds and personal growth, it’s both entertaining and meaningful for younger audiences.

Available on: Hotstar
IMDb: 6.4/10

34. Rookie Of The Year

To a 12-year-old Henry, his tragic accident came as a blessing in disguise as he magically gains super pitching powers leading him to play among the pro players of the Chicago cubs. This sports sci-fi combo will blow your child’s mind. Its relatable storyline and positive themes encourage resilience and self-belief in young viewers.

Available on: Hotstar
IMDb: 6.1/10

35. Nacho Libre

This movie is about a Catholic friar and cook who secretly enjoys lucha libre wrestling. He moonlights as a luchador to financially support the orphanage where he works. The story is partially adapted from a real-life Mexican Catholic priest who had a career as a masked luchador spanning over two decades to earn money for an orphanage he directed. Nacho Libre teaches the importance of courage and friendship and is perfect for sparking kids’ imaginations. 

Available on: Prime video
IMDb: 5.9/10

36. Like Mike

It is a fantasy movie about a young boy, Calvin, who dreams of becoming an NBA basketball team player. After gaining mysterious basketball skills with a pair of M.J. engraved magical shoes, he is all set to become an NBA star. The movie captivates young viewers with its exciting sports action and heartwarming messages of self-belief and friendship.

Available on: Amazon
IMDb: 5.4/10

37. Most Valuable Primate (MVP)

Image: IMDb

Here’s a movie with a delightful mix of humor and heart. An ice hockey prodigy, Jack the chimpanzee, has won the hearts of many with his extraordinary skills in the hockey team. But the labs want him all to themselves. What happens next, find out! Available on: Prime video
IMDb: 4.2/10

Infographic: Sports Movies For Children

Engaging in physical activities such as sports helps one to stay healthy and fit. But sometimes, children may not feel motivated enough to take part in sports and games. So, we suggest you introduce them to the list of movies in the following infographic to help them choose and get involved in their favorite sport.

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Is your child a sports enthusiast? Have a look at these top 10 sports movies on Disney+. From underdog triumphs to inspiring tales of teamwork, these movies can help boost your child’s interest in sports and storytelling.

Illustration: Good Sports Movies For Children To Watch

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team

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