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Rusty, the gnarly, sixty-something coach of the Paihana Womens Rugby picks up his nineteen year old star first-five, Phoenix on the way to training. They have been inseparable rugby mates since Phoenix was a child but their friendship is threatened by a new mentor in Phoenix's life - lesbian team captain, Mel.
Tensions boil over at training when Mel and Phoenix run a daring move against Rustys orders. He threatens to throw Mel out of the team unless they prove they can complete the play three times. Mel agrees on the condition that Rusty resigns if they are successful. Phoenix displays her awesome array of skills as they complete the first two plays. However, on the last play, she catches a glimpse of an old, sad Rusty and fumbles the ball.
As they drive home, Phoenix's loyalty forces Rusty to reconsider what is really best for her future.
Festival/Awards:
2015 Tampere Film Festival, Wairoa Maori Film Festival - Best Short Film, T Tahiti Prize, Best Actress: Maria Walker, New Zealand International Film Festival, Hawaii International Film Festival, Nothing LessThan Equal Film Festival, Hollyshorts, Joshua Tree Film Festival, iris Prize Film Festival, Side by Side Film Festival, Show Me Shorts, London Digital Film Festival, Pasifica Film Festival, SWANZ: Best Short Film Script, Big Pride LA Film Festival.