Netflix is preparing to release, Last Chance U at the end of July, a new docu-series that introduces audiences to a little-known college whose football team is undefeated with 3 consecutive National Championships under their belt. The East Mississippi Community College (EMCC) Lions have become a phenomenon in junior college sports, attracting elite athletes, some of whom have been held back by poor academic performance or behavioral issues.
Under Coach Buddy Stephens, EMCC has become one of the most successful but least known athletic programs, graduating more than 20 players per year into football scholarships at four-year universities, with nine of his former players currently playing in the NFL.
“Nobody in my family ever been this far,” a player featured says in the video. “I asked myself, ‘is this something I want to do?’ Being away from my son playing football for him. But I’m also missing him growing up.”
Director Greg Whiteley, known for his work in Resolved and Mitt, spoke about what he required from a school during the selection process and what you can expect to see.
“We make that a prerequisite, that we get that kind of access,” Whiteley said. “There are a lot of shows that promise behind-the-scenes access, but not in the way that we’re used to delivering. One of the reasons that we chose EMCC was they said, ‘Yeah, we can’t think of anything where we’re not gonna allow you to be.’ You feel like you’re a scrub on the sidelines while watching the doc.”
Netflix will release the six-part series on July 29.
