Ep 2. Ingo The Brave

Ingo The Brave is the second episode of the third season of the acclaimed sports documentary series, Religion of Sports. The show, which explores the intersection of sports and culture, is executive produced by Tom Brady, Michael Strahan, and Gotham Chopra.

The episode follows the story of Ingo Steuer, a former East German Olympic figure skater who became one of the most controversial coaches in the sport. Ingo's journey takes him from his early days as a promising young athlete in East Germany to his rise as a coach in post-reunification Germany.

The episode explores Ingo's unique approach to coaching, which is a blend of technical expertise and unconventional methods. Ingo is known for his radical approach to music selection, choreography, and costuming. Ingo's skaters often push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in figure skating, incorporating elements of pop culture and contemporary dance into their routines.

Ingo's coaching style doesn't always sit well with the judges and the establishment of the figure skating world. His skaters are often penalized for being too edgy, too unconventional, and not conforming to traditional figure skating norms. Ingo himself is no stranger to controversy, having been implicated in a doping scandal at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano.

Despite the setbacks and the controversies, Ingo remains committed to his vision and his skaters. He believes that figure skating should be a form of artistic expression and not just a technical display of athleticism. Ingo's love for the sport and his passion for coaching are evident in every scene of the episode.

The episode also delves into the personal struggles that Ingo has faced over the years. Growing up in East Germany, Ingo faced intense scrutiny and pressure as a young athlete. He was forced to endure a rigorous training regime and was separated from his family for long periods of time. Ingo's coach was himself a former Stasi informer, and Ingo was forced to navigate a complex web of political and personal relationships to succeed in the sport.

In the years since reunification, Ingo has struggled to find his place in the new Germany. He has faced discrimination and xenophobia, and his unconventional coaching style has often been dismissed as "too foreign." Despite these challenges, Ingo has remained resilient, continuing to push the boundaries of the sport and inspiring a new generation of skaters.

Overall, Ingo The Brave is a fascinating exploration of the world of figure skating and the complex personalities that inhabit it. With stunning cinematography, compelling storytelling, and a powerful soundtrack, the episode is a must-see for fans of both sports and documentary filmmaking.