ABOUT THE PROJECT

LOGLINE
A determined and spirited young man born with Down syndrome overcomes hardships and stigmas to become the first person with this disability to play and score in a college football game, redefining what it means to be a true champion.

SYNOPSIS
KICKIN’ IT is the inspirational true of Caden Cox, the first person with Down Syndrome to play and score in a college football game. The film tracks his journey against prejudice and a system not designed for his inclusion.

With the unwavering support of his parents and older brother, Caden has been able to transcend the traditional boundaries placed on him, providing inspiration not only for his community, but for the entire disabilities population and beyond. The film strives to show the value of all people in society.

Caden Cox grew up in Nelsonville, Ohio, where he was diagnosed with Down Syndrome. Rambunctious from a young age, he demonstrated an early interest in football. But in order for him to be allowed to even attend the normal high school, his parents have to fight the school board tooth and nail. Caden successfully attends the local high school, where his brother protects him from bullies and the animosity of others.

Caden eventually asks to be included on the school football team, but is denied. After an extended period of persistence, he is finally allowed to play on the team. To the surprise of the coach, but not his family, Caden is a success on the team.

But as his own family goes through their own challenges, Caden is faced with the hard realities of achieving his dream of going to Ohio State University. While attending Hocking University, he achieves the milestone of being the first person with Down syndrome to score in a college game, which ultimately help him achieve his dream of attending Ohio State University.

PROJECT TYPE Narrative Feature

SCREENWRITER Jay Paul Deratany
PRODUCER Andrew Sugerman, Jay Paul Deratany
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER Jennifer Wyatt

WEBSITE https://www.kickinitfilm.com/

The Film Collaborative (TFC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing programs and services for independent filmmakers. TFC’s federal tax ID number is 32-0295081. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

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