Sports anime is not as popular as other genres in anime, but in sports anime, the main character (MC) is often a talented athlete who faces various challenges and opponents on their way to the top. Many sports anime also feature themes of perseverance, teamwork, and personal growth as the MC strives to become the best in their chosen sport.
One common theme in sports anime is the MC being underestimated or overlooked due to various circumstances, such as their age, size, or lack of experience. Here are seven sports anime where the MC is underestimated and must prove themselves through their hard work and determination:
Days
“Days” is a captivating journey into the world of high school soccer, centered around Tsukushi Tsukamoto, a boy lacking any remarkable skills or physical abilities. His life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Jin Kazama, a soccer prodigy, who introduces him to the rigorous and passionate world of high school soccer. Despite his initial lack of talent, Tsukushi’s unparalleled determination and hard work pave his way into the Seiseki High School soccer team, where he strives to prove his worth and passion for the game. The anime meticulously follows Tsukushi’s development as a player and his interactions with teammates, each with their own unique backgrounds and soccer philosophies. The team’s journey through various challenges and tournaments showcases the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and the sheer love for the sport.
This anime perfectly aligns with the theme of “Best Sports Anime Where MC is Not Taken Seriously” due to Tsukushi’s initial perception as an underdog. His lack of soccer experience and physical prowess makes him an unlikely candidate for success in the competitive world of high school soccer. However, it’s his unwavering spirit, growth, and the impact he has on his team that makes “Days” an inspirational story. It beautifully illustrates how determination and hard work can overcome natural talent deficits, making it a perfect addition to this list for viewers who love underdog stories filled with emotional and physical growth.
Shoot! Goal to the Future
“Shoot! Goal to the Future” brings to life the story of Atsushi Kamiya, a former captain of Kakegawa High School’s soccer team, who after gaining fame as a “courageous captain” for a renowned Italian soccer team, returns to his roots. The plot thickens with the introduction of Hideto Tsuji, a seemingly disinterested student at Kakegawa High, as the school’s soccer team has lost its former glory. The unlikely meeting between Kamiya and Tsuji marks the beginning of a new legend in the world of high school soccer. This anime delves into themes of legacy, rebirth, and the relentless pursuit of dreams amidst adversity, as Kamiya seeks to revive the weakened soccer team to its former splendor with the help of Tsuji and other new members.
“Shoot! Goal to the Future” is a fitting addition to the “7 Best Sports Anime Where MC is Not Taken Seriously” list, as it explores the journey of a team striving to reclaim its former glory and the underestimated potential of its new and seemingly indifferent member, Tsuji. His initial lack of interest and recognition within the team serves as a perfect setup for an underdog story that many viewers will find both inspiring and relatable. This anime showcases the transformative power of sports, mentorship, and teamwork in overcoming challenges, making it an excellent watch for fans looking for stories where characters defy expectations and grow both on and off the field.
Prince of Stride: Alternative
“Prince of Stride: Alternative” is an anime that takes the sports genre into a unique direction with its focus on “Stride,” a fictional extreme sport that combines elements of parkour, relay racing, and sprinting across urban settings. The story unfolds at Honan Academy, where first-year students Takeru Fujiwara and Nana Sakurai are determined to revive the school’s Stride club. Their goal is to compete and win in the top Stride competition, “End of Summer,” but they face the challenge of recruiting enough members to form a team. Their efforts lead them to Riku Yagami, a reluctant yet talented athlete who initially refuses to join due to his aversion to Stride.
This anime stands out not just for its inventive sport but also for its vibrant animation and visual storytelling. It has been praised for its dynamic depiction of Stride competitions, leveraging brilliant color schemes and cinematography to bring the high-speed action to life. While the series does dive into familiar sports anime tropes, including team bonding and overcoming personal and collective challenges, it differentiates itself with its fresh setting and the sport itself. Despite the innovative concept, some viewers found the plot to be somewhat predictable, with character development and the depth of the sport’s rules not fully explored.
“Prince of Stride: Alternative” fits perfectly into the “7 Best Sports Anime Where MC is Not Taken Seriously” list due to its focus on underdog characters striving to make a name for themselves in a relatively unknown sport. The anime does an excellent job of showcasing how each member’s unique skills and personalities contribute to the team’s overall dynamics, echoing the real-world message that success in sports often hinges on teamwork, dedication, and the courage to pursue one’s passion against all odds. Despite some criticisms regarding its execution, the anime’s compelling visuals, energetic soundtrack, and the novel concept of Stride make it a must-watch for fans looking for something different in the sports genre.
Big Windup!
“Big Windup!” (also known as “Ookiku Furikabutte” in Japanese) is a compelling sports anime that delves deep into the world of high school baseball, centering on the character of Ren Mihashi. Mihashi is a pitcher plagued by a severe lack of confidence stemming from his middle school days, where his teammates ostracized him, believing he was only chosen as the ace pitcher because his grandfather owned the school. Despite his undeniable skill and passion for baseball, Mihashi’s psychological barriers have led him to believe he is the cause of his teams’ losses. This changes when he transfers to Nishiura High School and joins their baseball team, embarking on a journey of personal growth and team building.
The series is praised for its realistic portrayal of the sport, focusing not just on the games themselves but also on the detailed strategy behind baseball, the psychological aspects affecting the players, and the development of friendships and rivalries. Mihashi, despite his initial fears, slowly begins to gain confidence through the support of his new teammates, especially his relationship with the team’s catcher, Takaya Abe. Abe’s strategic mind and initial interest in Mihashi’s obedience evolve into a genuine partnership, aiming to boost Mihashi’s self-esteem through their victories.
What makes “Big Windup!” stand out in the sports anime genre is its attention to the mental and emotional growth of its characters, alongside the baseball action. Mihashi’s journey from a self-doubting pitcher to a more confident player, thanks to the encouragement of his teammates, is a heartwarming aspect of the show. The series also features a diverse cast of characters, each bringing their unique personalities and skills to the team, creating a dynamic and engaging team chemistry that’s both entertaining and inspiring.
This anime fits perfectly into the list of “7 Best Sports Anime Where MC is Not Taken Seriously” because it starts with Mihashi’s struggle with self-worth and his gradual acceptance and recognition within his new team. The detailed depiction of the sport, combined with the emotional depth of the characters, makes “Big Windup!” a highly recommended watch for fans looking for a series that balances sports action with deep character development.
Love All Play
Love All Play” follows the story of Ryo Mizushima, who joins his middle school’s badminton team with high hopes but finds himself struggling due to the lack of a proper coach. Despite these setbacks, his undeniable physical strength and dedication help him reach the prefectural tournament. His journey takes a promising turn when he joins the esteemed Yokohama-Minato High School’s badminton team, led by the legendary coach Ebihara. Surrounded by talented teammates, Mizushima aims to refine his skills and compete at the inter-high tournament, aspiring to become a top athlete.
The anime adaptation of “Love All Play” is animated by Nippon Animation and OLM, featuring opening and ending themes by Hey! Say! JUMP and music by Yuki Hayashi. It aired from April to September 2022, capturing the hearts of sports anime enthusiasts with its detailed depiction of badminton and the personal growth of its characters. Viewers have praised the series for its natural portrayal of the characters’ emotions and relationships, beautiful animation, and the wholesome dynamics among the team members. However, some feel that the matches could have been depicted with more depth and intensity.
“Love All Play” presents a refreshing take on the sports genre, especially for badminton fans. It combines the excitement of competitive play with the emotional depth of its characters’ journeys, making it a noteworthy addition to the sports anime lineup of 2022.
For those interested in a sports anime that focuses on personal growth, teamwork, and the ups and downs of high school badminton, “Love All Play” offers a captivating story that’s both relatable and inspiring.
WAVE!! -Let’s go surfing!!-
“WAVE!! -Let’s Go Surfing!!-” is a unique addition to the sports anime genre, focusing on the exhilarating world of surfing. Originating from a mixed-media project by Mages, it encompasses a trilogy of films released in October 2020 and a 12-episode TV series airing from January to March 2021, produced by Asahi Production. The story unfolds in the coastal city of Ōarai, Ibaraki prefecture, centering on Masaki Hinaoka, who befriends a transfer student and surfing prodigy, Shō Akitsuki. Masaki’s newfound passion for surfing introduces him to a community of like-minded friends, propelling him on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
The narrative is not just about sports; it’s a coming-of-age tale that explores the bonds of friendship, the challenges of adolescence, and the pursuit of one’s passion against the backdrop of the beautiful, unpredictable sea. The series distinguishes itself with its focus on surfing, a less commonly featured sport in anime, offering viewers a glimpse into the surf culture and the emotional and physical dedication required to excel in it. Despite its unique setting and engaging character dynamics, the series received mixed reviews, with some criticism directed at its story and animation quality.
For those interested in a sports anime with a fresh perspective and a scenic coastal setting, “WAVE!! -Let’s Go Surfing!!-” presents a captivating story of friendship, growth, and the pursuit of dreams on the waves.
Over Drive
“Over Drive” is a sports anime that revolves around Mikoto Shinozaki, a high school student whose life takes a significant turn after being introduced to the world of competitive cycling by the girl he likes. This encounter not only changes his mundane daily routine but also sets him on a path to aspire to become the best cyclist in the world, with the Tour de France in his sights. Throughout the series, Shinozaki experiences the highs and lows of intense training, the camaraderie of being part of a cycling team, and the challenges of competing at a high level. The anime combines elements of comedy, romance, and the spirit of competition, as it delves into themes of personal growth, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams.
Produced by Xebec and aired from April to September 2007, “Over Drive” spans 26 episodes, each filled with moments of failure, success, and the relentless pursuit of improvement that define the protagonist’s journey. The opening theme “Winder Boku wa Koko ni iru” by Shōnen Kamikaze, along with ending themes “Saihate no Parade” by Merry and “Koi Suzumi” by DEL, set the energetic and emotive tone of the series. Despite mixed reviews, with some praising its humor and dramatic moments and others criticizing the pacing of the bicycle race segments, “Over Drive” offers a refreshing take on the sports genre by focusing on cycling, a less commonly featured sport in anime.
For fans of sports anime looking for a series that explores themes of perseverance, team dynamics, and personal growth against the backdrop of competitive cycling, “Over Drive” might be a ride worth taking.
