New Docuseries ‘Forever Auckland FC’ Delves into Team’s Journey

A new docuseries titled Forever Auckland FC offers an inside look at the Auckland-based A-League football team, capturing their journey from inception to their current season. Premiering on August 27, 2024, on Sky Open, the series aims to provide an authentic portrayal of the team’s dynamics, challenges, and triumphs.

Dame Julie Christie, a veteran in the industry with over 40 years of experience, emphasized the importance of storytelling in sports documentaries. She noted that creating a compelling series requires a “roller coaster” of emotions and events. “Auckland FC could have finished middle of the table. What happened if no one got injured? If there hadn’t been a roller coaster, what would we have?” she stated in an interview. Christie highlighted that the players and coaches delivered their own stories, making the process more authentic.

The series features humorous moments that are not typically associated with sports. Christie remarked, “Sport isn’t usually that funny, but Forever Auckland FC delivers a surprising number of laughs.” This includes the comedic chemistry between coaches Jonathan Gould and Danny Hay, who she described as acting like “an old married couple” after moving in together. Auckland FC’s CEO, Nick Becker, referred to their interactions as “absolutely gold,” pointing out highlights such as Francis DeVries becoming Player of the Year after previously working in a factory in Sweden.

The docuseries was filmed during a significant time for Auckland FC, which launched in March 2024 without any players. Becker noted the unique opportunity to document the team’s rise and the embedded cameraman who became an integral part of the squad. “The guys already loved him, and they were just natural around him,” he said.

Despite initial concerns about the head coach, Steve Corica, who had negative experiences with similar projects in the past, he ultimately felt comfortable with the process. Corica requested some tactical content be removed and asked for final approval on episodes, yet he has not yet watched them. “He’s been that relaxed with the process. He’s been that happy and confident about it that he’s signed it off,” Becker explained.

For the players, the series serves as both entertainment and a valuable resource for the future. Becker expressed that it holds special significance for them, stating, “I think it’s really special for them.” The premiere event left Corica feeling emotional, noting that seeing himself on screen was “confronting without a doubt,” adding, “I had those tingles, and I also had a couple of moments where I was sort of welling up.”

“Episode 7 is possibly the best piece of sports television I’ve ever seen. That’s how good some of the things that happen are,”

Christie remarked, highlighting the series’ potential to resonate with audiences.

Forever Auckland FC airs weekly on Sky Open, starting on August 27, at 19:30, with all episodes available on Sky Go, Neon, and Sky Sport Now. The series promises to engage football fans not only with its on-field action but also with the human stories that make sports captivating.