I Got Next

The key issue we are addressing through the production of this documentary is mental health and wellbeing.

Streetball is for everyone and is a tapestry of people from diverse backgrounds. All of the streetball characters that will be interwoven through the telling of Daniel and Eamon’s journey have faced their own challenges throughout their lives, from broken families to broken dreams, addiction, the trauma of war as South-Sudanese refugees, and the societal pressures of growing up. Streetball, and its strong sense of community, has proven to be the saviour for these young adults.

It’s so important for young people with diverse cultural backgrounds and in low socio-economic circumstances in Australia to see themselves represented positively on screen and for their interests and passions to be acknowledged and valued. The main characters and supporting cast have powerful stories about family, friendship, determination, breaking through addiction, accountability and facing adversity.

Through I GOT NEXT we want to bring awareness to the many forms of trauma and mental health impacts young people from diverse backgrounds in Australia often face, and how being part of a positive and supportive community can have lasting effects on working through those struggles and set-backs. We want to present an open discussion about the many and varied mental health and wellbeing challenges and offer positive outcomes for people who may find themselves in similar situations and feeling a similar way.

Through I GOT NEXT we can reach young people in communities right across Australia and around the world with a message of hope, self-belief and determination.

Summer Jam shows that commUNITY is the most powerful ingredient in leading a positive, proactive and successful life. A theatrical release of the 90-minute documentary will provide the opportunity to tour the film and spread that message through direct engagement with a broad range of people and locations.

We want to:
– Showcase and celebrate an Australian community not often represented on screen.
– Increase awareness of at-risk communities and their experiences.
– Help facilitate conversations and give marginalised voices a platform.
– Inspire young people to chase their dreams.
– Help to facilitate conversations around positive mental health and wellbeing.

Director Lucy Messenger has been following Daniel and Eamon’s story as Summer Jam has continued to grow over the last 4 years. She has developed strong relationships with players, organisers, volunteers, referees, community organisations, families and more. The trust Lucy has built over this time has provided an access all areas pass, so to speak, to the Summer Jam tournament, the community and the lives of the main characters and supporting cast.

We also have guaranteed full access to decades worth of personal video archive and 13 years of incredible tournament footage.

In 2024 the producers secured development funding from Screenwest and Screen Australia as well as time critical filming funding for Lucy to continue the filming journey during development.

Although about sport – the ultimate aim is to make a film that goes beyond the surface to tell a raw and honest story of friendship, ambition and the intersection of race and class in Australia.

This will be developed once we secure a mental health and wellbeing impact partner for the project.