Top 10 90s Kids Sports Movies: From 'The Sandlot' to 'Mighty Ducks'

Article Summary

The Mighty Ducks

may have dominated the '90s kids sports movies, but

The Sandlot

takes first place with its beautiful coming-of-age story and timeless tale of friendship.

Little Giants

hits all the right notes with big names from sports, two major actors in the lead, and a legitimate female lead to cheer on.

D2: The Mighty Ducks

The sequel to the first film surpasses it with its humorous exploration of a new city and emotionally charged moments as the team navigates a coach more interested in fame than the team itself.

In the '90s, a particular genre that stood out was kids sports movies. Some became so popular that they turned into franchises, inspired real teams, and even received a remake on Disney+. However, does The Mighty Ducks truly deserve the title of the best the decade had to offer? We can't ignore the talent showcased in Disney Channel Original Movies or the influence of heartthrob Devon Sawa either. All of these elements contributed to making '90s kids sports movies exceptional, but only one can rise as the ultimate champion. It's time to determine who comes out on top.

13. Switching Goals (1999)

Long before Kim Kardashian turned her family into a brand, Mary Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen, famously known as The Olsen Twins, captured everyone's attention as little toddlers on the popular TV show Full House. They went on to build a fortune through various ventures such as books, toys, clothing lines, and movies, although the quality of the latter was occasionally questionable. One such film, Switching Goals, drew inspiration from their previous movie, It Takes Two, but set the story on a soccer field. The focus shifted from the sport itself to the classic 'switcheroo' concept. Given its striking similarity to their earlier work, this movie should be disqualified from the game altogether.

12. Little Big League (1994)

Little Big League depicts the story of a young individual who inherits a baseball team from their deceased grandfather and assumes the role of manager. Much like the film Blank Check, released around the same time in 1994, it delves into the realm of sports movies with a similar charm. This movie caters to the fantasy of some younger spectators but may not stand out as one of the most memorable films in this genre. It is often mistaken for another baseball-themed dream fulfillment movie that will be featured later in this list.

11. Johnny Tsunami (1999)

Johnny Tsunami, a Disney Channel Original Movie, capitalized on the rising popularity of extreme sports in the late '90s. The film revolves around Johnny (played by Brandon Baker), a passionate surfer whose life takes a drastic turn when his father (played by Yuji Okumoto) is relocated to Vermont. In addition to adjusting to a new school, Johnny must adapt to a world completely devoid of surfing. Nevertheless, he manages to prove himself by mastering a new type of board—snowboarding. The storyline of Johnny Tsunami embodies the beloved elements found in sports and children's movies, particularly the narrative of an underdog and outsider striving to succeed. While these themes resonate well together, Disney's attempt to recreate the magic almost a decade later with Johnny Kapahala: Back on Board fell short.

10. Ladybugs (1992)

Ladybugs, released before The Mighty Ducks, laid the groundwork for kids' sports movies. Starring Rodney Dangerfield as Chester Lee, the film follows his desperate attempts to impress everyone in his life, including his new girlfriend Ilene Graff. In an effort to be the best, he ends up coaching a youth soccer team. The story takes an unexpected turn when Chester convinces his girlfriend's son, Matthew (played by Jonathan Brandis), to disguise himself as a girl and join the team. Ladybugs may not be as well-known as other '90s films, but it played a significant role in popularizing the genre.

9. D3: The Mighty Ducks (1996)

The final installment in a beloved franchise for many millennials, D3: The Mighty Ducks may not be the pinnacle of the trio, but it still holds some merit. It is evident that Disney wanted to extend the story with this addition, as there was a significant growth in the kids' ages, although not as drastic as the cast of Stranger Things between seasons. Nevertheless, this shift felt somewhat abrupt. Additionally, the plot lacks the charm of the first film and the comedic flair of the second. While it provides a satisfactory conclusion to the iconic trilogy, it falls short of being the franchise's best.

8. Brink! (1998)

Who among you has watched Brink! in the past decade? For those who have experienced it, this remarkable journey follows the struggles of a teenager named Erik von Detten, who is forced to abandon his principles and perform for financial gain instead of pursuing his passion for inline skating, all because his father suffers a back injury. Although it may seem like a grave situation, Brink! captures the essence of the late 90s, when the X-Games started to gain popularity and become more mainstream. This film also played a pivotal role in establishing the reign of the first twelve Disney Channel Original Movies, which were eagerly anticipated and televised on small screens every Saturday night.

7. Rookie of the Year (1993)

Image via 20th Century Fox

6. The Big Green (1995)

In the ‘90s, baseball was often considered America's favorite pastime, and this sentiment may have been especially true. The increase in popularity could be attributed to players like Ken Griffey Jr. and Mike Piazza, or perhaps the regular release of new baseball movies that captured the hearts of young fans. While the exact reason remains unknown, it is certain that American Pie actor Thomas Ian Nicholas played a significant role in making baseball a favorite movie sport through his performance in Rookie of the Year. In this film, Nicholas portrays Henry, a young boy whose broken arm miraculously heals and transforms him into an extraordinary baseball player. Although the likelihood of such an occurrence is extremely low for any child, the audience cannot help but be enthralled by the exciting journey Henry's arm takes him on throughout the movie.

Image via Disney

Amongst many stories of the underdog, The Big Green stands out for its unique approach in generating interest among kids for soccer, a sport that was not as popular in America compared to baseball or football at that time. Did it gain an advantage by featuring three actors who already had a strong fan base from their previous movies? Absolutely! The Big Green showcased Chauncey Leopardi and Patrick Renna from The Sandlot, along with Bug Hall, who was known to many from The Little Rascals. While there was a certain familiarity with The Big Green due to these actors, it also delved into a mature subplot focusing on immigration, a topic rarely explored in children's films during that era. With its endearing outcast characters, entertaining storyline, and social consciousness, The Big Green checks all the boxes for a captivating movie.

5. The Mighty Ducks (1992)

A recognition is deserved for the fact that an entire NHL team originated from The Mighty Ducks movie. While the subplot of The Big Green intrigued many and shed light on certain American struggles, The Mighty Ducks primarily revolves around Gordon Bombay (Emilio Estevez), who is sentenced to perform community service following his arrest for drunk driving. Despite this, it remains one of the best movies, although it is solidly placed fifth due to being outperformed by one other film.

4. Angels in the Outfield (1994)

Angels in the Outfield may not feature children playing sports, but its overwhelming emotional appeal still resonates with viewers. This Joseph Gordon-Levitt classic follows the story of Roger, a young foster child who idolizes the Angels baseball team. Roger's unwavering love for the team prompts actual angels, led by Christopher Lloyd, to intervene and help the struggling players. Only Roger has the ability to see these celestial beings, which leads to him receiving special attention from the team's manager, George Knox (portrayed by Danny Glover). Ultimately, Angels in the Outfield imparts valuable lessons on the power of hope and emphasizes the significance of chosen family. In a heartwarming conclusion, Roger and his best friend (portrayed by Milton Davis Jr.) are adopted by Knox. Aww!

3. D2: The Mighty Ducks (1994)

Much like its predecessor, the second installment of Sister Act, D2: The Mighty Ducks, surpasses the first in significant ways. This film transports fans from the cold streets of Minneapolis to the sunny landscapes of Los Angeles, where the team proudly represents the United States in the Junior Goodwill Games. Along the way, the team experiences some amusing shake-ups, with a few new additions that contribute to the comedic charm. Notably, this movie marks Kenan Thompson's first prominent role, released just a month before his debut on Nickelodeon's All That. The comedic element of the kids exploring a new city is entertaining, but simultaneously heart-wrenching as they deal with a coach who prioritizes fame over the team. Moreover, D2 features notable guest appearances from Olympian Kristi Yamaguchi, LA Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and none other than the hockey icon himself, Wayne Gretzky.

2. Little Giants (1994)

Little Giants didn't hold back when it came to their guest stars, and neither did D2, which featured some of the NFL's top players such as John Madden and Emmitt Smith. However, Little Giants also had its fair share of big names from the sports world. In addition, the movie boasted two talented actors as the adult leads: Rick Moranis and Ed O'Neill. Moranis played the underdog brother who never seemed to succeed, while O'Neill portrayed the football hero of their small town. Their paths cross on the football field when O'Neill refuses to let his niece, Becky, also known as Icebox, join the Pee-Wee Cowboys. Determined to support his daughter, Moranis encourages her to form her own team, consisting of the town's misfits, with the exception of the charming Junior Floyd. Little Giants perfectly captures everything one desires in a children's sports film, providing girls with a strong female protagonist to rally behind. Although it comes incredibly close, it falls just short of claiming the top spot.

1. The Sandlot (1993)

The Sandlot is a captivating tale of adolescence intertwined with the world of sports. Although the boys' mission to retrieve a baseball from a ferocious dog may seem trivial, it is merely a backdrop for a timeless story of friendship. Every viewer, both past and present, can resonate with the essential core group of friends that shapes their world during that formative age. These comrades explore mischief together, develop crushes on older locals, and venture into unknown territories while simultaneously learning from their mistakes.

The film not only emphasizes the significance of childhood friendships but also exudes an outsider appeal. Unlike the little leaguers who arrive in pristine uniforms ready for battle, the Sandlot kids are not part of an official team. While The Mighty Ducks and Little Giants also possess their own charm, there is something uniquely special about the characters in The Sandlot. Each member holds their own and is essential to the team's dynamic, making them more relatable and endearing. Consequently, The Sandlot holds an unyielding place in everyone's hearts.

Editor's P/S

As a hard fan of 90s kids sports movies, I have to say that this article brings back so many memories! I grew up watching these movies and they definitely had a big impact on me.

My favorite movie from the list is The Sandlot. I loved the story of the group of friends who come together to play baseball. It was so heartwarming and nostalgic. I also loved the movie Mighty Ducks. The story of the underdog team that wins the championship was so inspiring. I remember watching it with my friends and we were all so excited when they won.

Overall, I think this article does a great job of ranking the top 10 90s kids sports movies. I would definitely recommend these movies to anyone who is looking for a fun and nostalgic watch.