Summer of '94: The Rise of U.S. Soccer
Fox Sports is gearing up to premiere the documentary "Summer of '94," which delves into the remarkable journey of the U.S. men's national soccer team leading up to the 1994 FIFA World Cup. Directed by Dave LaMattina and Chad Walker, the film showcases the team's unexpected success on the global stage, despite being considered underdogs without a professional domestic league. Featuring interviews with key players like Alexi Lalas, Cobi Jones, and Eric Wynalda, the documentary sheds light on how the team's performance sparked a surge of interest in soccer in the United States and laid the groundwork for the establishment of Major League Soccer. The film will debut on Fox on May 23 after its premiere at the SXSW Film Festival on March 14.
"Summer of '94" offers a unique perspective on the 1994 U.S. squad, highlighting their achievements and impact on American soccer. Through new interviews and never-before-seen archival footage captured by the players themselves, the documentary provides an intimate look at the team's journey. Led by head coach Bora Milutinović, the players, including Jeff Agoos, Thomas Dooley, and Paul Caligiuri, navigated uncharted territory with determination and passion, ultimately changing the course of soccer in the country.
The release of "Summer of '94" coincides with Fox Sports' acquisition of the English-language rights to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The documentary serves as a tribute to the 1994 U.S. men's team and their pivotal role in popularizing soccer in America. Executive produced by industry heavyweights like Brian Grazer and Ron Howard, the film promises to offer an authentic and compelling portrayal of a group of players who defied the odds and left a lasting impact on the sport.
"Summer of '94" is a collaborative effort between Imagine Documentaries, Stand Together, and Dicks Sporting Goods' Cookie Jar & A Dream Studios. With a stellar lineup of producers and executives backing the project, the documentary is poised to resonate with soccer fans and enthusiasts alike. Get ready to relive the magic of the 1994 U.S. men's national team and witness their extraordinary journey on the big screen.