Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Lively soccer cartoon has good lessons, a few stereotypes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Supa Strikas
What's the Story?
Based on the comic book of the same name, SUPA STRIKAS is a kid's animated series about the daily journey of the world's greatest football (known to most American audiences as soccer) team. Lead striker Shakes, midfielder Cool Joe, defender North Shaw, and the rest of the South African team train hard to win the Super League trophy under the watchful eyes of Coach, the team's manager. But to compete at the professional level, the Supa Strikas find themselves navigating a system of scheming players and unethical coaches. Luckily, some of the greatest past and current footballers in the world offer their advice on how to deal with the challenges they're confronted with.
Is It Any Good?
This fun series features an all-male, pan-African football (soccer) team, and it underscores the importance of playing than winning. It uses the sport to contextualize valuable lessons about community, teamwork, and good sportsmanship. There's lots of ball playing action, too. But while the team has grown more diverse over the years, it is decidedly male-centered. Young female football fans may not be as drawn to it as a result, but Supa Strikas may inspire any kid who loves the sport.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about some of the lessons Supa Strikas teaches about football. What makes the team "the world's greatest"? Is it their athletic skills? Or is it their overall character?
Why aren't there any female players on the team? Can women play football as well as men can?
Is it ever ok to rely on stereotypes to represent people from different parts of the world? What if they are meant to be positive or fun?
TV Details
- Premiere date : February 1, 2008
- Cast : Nolan Balzer , Corny Rempel , Kevin Aichele
- Network : YouTube
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Character Strengths : Communication , Humility , Integrity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 4, 2020
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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