Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) Access, a notable development initiative designed to bridge the gap between emerging talent and WBD’s expansive portfolio of brands, has teamed up with TNT Sports to unveil the filmmakers who will participate in their groundbreaking project titled *Reframe the Game*. The trio of selected filmmakers—Hannah Congdon, Somina Fombo, and Daisy Ifama—will have the opportunity to bring their unique stories to life, highlighting significant narratives in women’s sports that frequently go unnoticed.
Launched in the previous year, *Reframe the Game* represents a strategic initiative aimed at showcasing lesser-known stories within the realm of women’s sports. This aligns seamlessly with TNT Sports’ commitment to fostering inclusivity and representation in sports production. The program not only aims to empower female voices behind the camera but also endeavors to provide audiences with fresh perspectives on sports narratives that matter.
As part of the selection process, ten promising filmmakers were shortlisted for an intensive professional development week. During this week, they gained invaluable access to insights and experiences within the domain of sports production and unscripted storytelling. Various sessions were held, including personal branding workshops and training on effective interview practices, led by Keme Nzerem, a well-known presenter from Channel 4 News, alongside seasoned industry professionals such as Bentley Weiner, the Senior Vice President at HBO Sport Documentaries, and Scott Young, Senior Vice President of Content, Production, and Business Operations at WBD Sports.
The outcome of this rigorous selection and training led to the selection of three short films: *The Long Away Game*, directed by Hannah Congdon; *No Rucks Given!*, by Somina Fombo; and *SET PACE*, directed by Daisy Ifama. Each filmmaker had to present their pitch to a panel of industry stalwarts, including WBD Executive Producer Kevin Evans and TNT Sports MotoGP presenter Suzi Perry.
Each of these short films responds to the vital prompt: “Tell us a story about women’s sport that needs to be told.”
*The Long Away Game*, helmed by Hannah Congdon, narrates the story of a young woman who faces displacement due to harrowing circumstances. After a dramatic evacuation to the UK, she discovers solace and community within a Yorkshire football club, symbolizing resilience and the power of sport as a unifying force.
*No Rucks Given!*, directed by Somina Fombo, chronicles the evolution of women’s rugby from humble beginnings on muddy installation pitches to flourishing popularity evidenced by record-breaking crowds. This film honors past players for their foundational contributions while exploring the relentless drive of present athletes. Notably, it features Laura Kapo, a former player of the year at the Guinness National Rugby Awards, as it sheds light on untold struggles and milestones in the evolution of women’s club rugby.
Daisy Ifama’s *SET PACE* brings attention to the remarkable journey of Carol Glenn, who holds the distinction of being Britain’s first black female motorsports official. The narrative charts Glenn’s pioneering efforts as she embarks on launching her own race team, breaking new ground in a typically male-dominated field. This film celebrates not only motorsport itself but also highlights the ongoing fight for gender, racial, and economic equity, emphasizing how one woman’s dedication can catalyze significant change.
Jen Sobol, the Director of WBD Access, expressed excitement about the partnership with TNT Sports and praised the filmmakers for their compelling storytelling. She underlined the importance of the professional development week, which provided an environment conducive to growth and networking while cultivating a deeper understanding of industry dynamics. Sobol emphasized her eagerness to see the films come to fruition on screen.
In a similar vein, Suzi Perry, in her capacity as a TNT Sports MotoGP presenter, shared her passion for promoting female representation in sports production. Her involvement in the pitch panel for *Reframe the Game* allowed her to witness firsthand the innovative stories presented by filmmakers. She eagerly awaits the premieres of these fresh narratives on TNT Sports.
Scott Young acknowledged the essential role of TNT Sports in pushing the boundaries of storytelling. He emphasized the organization’s dedication to presenting diverse perspectives that resonate with existing audiences while attracting new viewers. With content that spans women’s football, rugby, and motorsport, the final films are set to air on an exciting date coinciding with the UEFA Champions League Final, amplifying their importance within the sports landscape.
