Burn the Ships

Burn the Ships is an inspiring sports documentary that focuses not only on the challenges and triumphs of women's professional softball but also underscores the societal expectations and economic disparities in professional sports, when compared to their male counterparts. This compelling 2017 film features the Akron Racers, one of the oldest teams in the National Pro Fastpitch league, and is an engrossing tribute to their gritty determination and fierce love for the game.

The film is directed by Danielle Miller and Julia Thorndike and stars Joey Arrietta, a co-founder of the Akron Racers, Cheri Kempf, the commissioner of the National Pro Fastpitch league, and Jackie Ledbetter, a former player for the Racers. The storyline primarily revolves around the concept of ‘burning the ships’, a phrase coined from ancient history where commanders ordered their ships to be set ablaze to eliminate means of retreat, thereby making advancement the only path forward.

The documentary features a unique perspective as it tells the Akron Racers’ story, showing their spirited endeavors and never-surrender attitude on and off the field. Joey Arrietta's passion and hustle become the beating heart of the narrative. Her commitment to keeping the team and the league alive against all odds is nothing short of inspiring. As a co-founder, she forms the lifeblood of the Racers, establishing their reputation since 1999.

The film also brings into focus Cheri Kempf, a former player turned commissioner of the Fastpitch league. She candidly shares insights into the uphill battle for acceptance and prominence that Women's Professional Softball is fighting in the broader sports' landscape. Her perspective provides a look at the issues at an organizational and league level that magnify the struggle of these female athletes.

Jackie Ledbetter, a former player, stands tall as a symbol of the challenges and rewards that come with playing for an under-recognized sport. She embodies the spirit and determination of the many players who sacrificed much to play the game they love. Her personal stories act as a lens into the lives of the athletes, the sacrifices they have made, and the passion that drives them.

The documentary explores the social impact through inspiring personal stories, showing the players juggling between their day jobs, personal life, and their unwavering love for the sport. It offers an insight into the ongoing struggle within the female sports industry to bring women's softball into the greater visibility against a backdrop of financial difficulties, limited public interest, and media coverage.

The filmmakers do a commendable job of shining a light on the grit and tenacity of these athletes, whose love for sport brings them together to compete at the highest level, often at a significant personal cost. Featuring intense sequences of the game and behind-the-scenes moments, the directors succeed in bringing to life the human stories that unfold on and off the playing field.

Ultimately, Burn the Ships is a film about the fight for equality in sports, highlighting the struggles and setbacks while also celebrating the determination and victories of those involved. It serves as a testimony to those passionate athletes and administrators burning their proverbial ships, committing fully to a cause they are passionate about, refusing to back down, irrespective of the challenges that lay ahead.

This film, therefore, doesn't just appeal to sports enthusiasts but to anyone who appreciates stories of resilience, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams while battling against odds. It provides a humanizing insight into the players' lives, placing its spotlight on a corner of professional sports seldom explored.

To conclude, Burn the Ships is a heartfelt tribute to the women who sacrifice so much to play professional softball. The engaging narrative, moving human stories, and passionate spirit of the players makes it more than just a sports documentary. It is a poignant, inspiring, and thought-provoking film that resonates with every viewer, irrespective of their interest in sports. It beautifully encapsulates the message of perseverance, resilience and, above all, the unwavering determination synonymous with the phrase 'Burn the Ships'. With Burn the Ships, be prepared to embark on an emotional, inspiring, and heartfelt journey that offers more than mere entertainment; it offers a profound appreciation for the unsung heroes of women's professional sports.