You Gotta Believe

Bobby Ratliff and his best friend Jon Kelly, a lawyer, co-coach a Little League Baseball team in Fort Worth, Texas. The team consists of their sons and several other players, but unfortunately, they are struggling with low motivation and interest in the sport.

While practicing with his son Robert, Bobby suddenly collapses and is rushed to the hospital. The diagnosis reveals that he has stage 3 melanoma, which prevents him from continuing in his coaching role for the team.

In a twist of fate, the struggling team receives an invitation to play in the 2002 Little League World Series. Jon Kelly decides to take over the coaching responsibilities, feeling it is a tremendous opportunity for the boys.

To bolster the team’s chances, Jon invites local coach Mitch Belew to assist with training. Their hard work pays off as the team's performance significantly improves, leading them to win their qualifying games.

As the team progresses to the LLWS in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, Bobby is unable to join them due to undergoing chemotherapy. He remains supportive from afar, hoping for the best for his son Robert and the rest of the team.

Fort Worth played their first game and emerged victorious, generating excitement and hope among the team and their supporters. However, in their second game, they face a crushing defeat, which dampens their spirits.

During the second game, tensions rise when two players collide while attempting to catch a fly ball. Jon contemplates sending the boys home but decides against it, especially with Bobby managing to attend the next game.

In a tense game, Jon’s son Walker pitches an impressive no-hitter. As the game stretches into extra innings with a scoreless tie, fatigue sets in, and the team’s performance starts to wane.

As Walker tires, he gives up a crucial home run that puts the opposing team ahead. Following Little League rules, he has to be pulled from the game, leaving the team in a precarious position.

Fort Worth struggles to mount a comeback after being down by two runs. The final blow comes when Robert is ruled out at home plate while attempting to score the tying run, eliminating the team from the tournament.

Bobby succumbs to his battle with cancer, with his family by his side during his final moments. His passing leaves a profound impact on Jon, Robert, and the entire team, who have all admired his spirit.

At Bobby's funeral, Jon delivers a heartfelt eulogy, honoring his friend and co-coach. The Fort Worth Little League team serves as pallbearers, illustrating the deep bonds formed throughout the season.

In 2023, an adult Robert returns to the ballpark with his son Wyatt, reminiscing about his childhood. He reads a heartfelt letter that his father Bobby had written to him, bridging the past and the present.