Big Ten Icons is a television documentary series produced by Big Ten Network that profiles outstanding athletes, coaches and other notable figures who have had a significant impact on the Big Ten Conference. The show features in-depth interviews, archival footage and personal stories that provide unique insight into the achievements and personalities of each featured icon.
The series premiered in January 2010 and has since featured over forty episodes. The subjects of the show have encompassed a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, wrestling, track and field, and hockey. The series covers individuals from multiple universities within the conference, such as Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State, and Wisconsin.
Each episode of Big Ten Icons begins with a brief overview of the featured individual's accomplishments and impact on the sport and the conference. The show then delves into a more detailed examination of the individual's life and career, featuring interviews with the icon, their family, and colleagues. These interviews are combined with archival footage, still photographs, and other visual elements that help to illustrate the individual's story.
Throughout the series, there is a focus on the individual's personal life, their upbringing and early experiences, as well as their athletic or coaching careers. Viewers will learn about the obstacles that each icon faced, the sacrifices they made, and the strategies they used to achieve success. The series also highlights the mentorship and support that each icon received along the way, from family, coaches, and teammates.
One unique feature of Big Ten Icons is its emphasis on the icon's impact beyond the field of play. The show examines the individual's community involvement, their philanthropic efforts, and their role as a leader and role model. This holistic approach provides a full picture of the individual's personality and contributions, making the show more than just a sports documentary.
While the show is centered around sports, it is also grounded in the broader social and political context of each era. The icons' stories are situated within the historical events of the time, such as the Vietnam War, the civil rights movement, and the shift to professionalism in sports. This provides an additional layer of depth and meaning to the show, making it not just a sports history lesson but a social and cultural one as well.
The show is hosted by former ESPN anchor, Dave Revsine, who provides a professional and polished presentation. However, the focus of the show remains squarely on the icons themselves, and their stories are allowed to speak for themselves. The interview questions are thoughtful and probing, but never intrusive. The show is edited skillfully, with the interviews and archival footage woven together in a seamless and engaging way.
For sports fans, Big Ten Icons is a must-watch series. The show provides a behind-the-scenes look at some of the greatest players, coaches, and leaders in Big Ten history. It also offers insights into the history and culture of the conference itself, and the pivotal role it has played in shaping American sports.
However, even for those who are not die-hard sports fans, the show has a lot to offer. Each episode is a compelling story of perseverance, dedication, and achievement. The icons' stories are inspiring and relatable, making the show a great source of motivation for anyone looking to achieve their own goals. Moreover, the show provides a unique perspective on the broader social and political context of each era, making it an important cultural document as well.
In summary, Big Ten Icons is a top-quality documentary series that is well worth watching for anyone with an interest in sports or American history. The show showcases some of the most remarkable individuals in Big Ten history, and tells their stories in a compelling and engaging way. Whether you are a sports fan or not, Big Ten Icons is a show that you don't want to miss.
