Spirit of the Game

[phone rings] Hello, Delyle Condie speaking.

[laughs] Basketball star.

It's a long time sinceI've been called that.

Yeah.

Ken Watson? Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that.

He was a good man.

Yes, well thanks forletting me know.

I'll keep you in my prayers.

Goodbye.

[hangs up phone] [uplifting music] [crowd cheering on T.

V.

] [music ends] [indiscernible dialogue] [both laugh] Every time! One of these days, you'll catch on.

I hope not.

Emily, will you marry me? I was going to get a ring firstand plan it all out, but – Yes! Yes, yes, yes, yes.

[both laugh] Oh, shoot.

I should haveasked your dad first.

What can he say? [Emily laughs] -Hi dad!-Hi son.

Bye son.

Oh yeah, I'm getting married.

That's nice, son.

Hi mom.

You look happy.

-Must have been a good movie?-Mm.

We saw Lady and theTramp at the Grand.

And I don't knowwhat it was but.

.

.

something about that moviemade me realise that.

.

.

Emily's.

.

.

well.

.

.

you know.

.

.

her and I.

.

.

we just, we just.

.

.

Oh, dang it, I justproposed to her! Oh! [both laugh] What did she say? Did shesay yes? How did you propose? Wait you don't have a ring yet?Do you have a ring yet? Oh, was she excited? Oh, Delyle, this is so exciting! Mom, take a breath, OK? I don't have a ring yet.

But she said yes.

Congratulations.

Frank obviouslygave you his blessing? Well, I haven't had the chanceto ask him yet, Dad.

I wanted to talk to you allbefore I did anything, but it just sort of popped out.

That's just you being you.

You have a great bigloving Condie heart.

Could that be a problem, Dad? Knowing Frank, I doubt it.

But I would take care ofthat first thing tomorrow.

Well we need to get you a ring.

Tomorrow we'lldrive to Molinelli's at Pocotello and go shopping.

Oh my, there is so much toorganise, I need to make a list.

So many people to invite.

All the Wilsons, the Hamiltons.

Oh dear, we can't forgetthe McQueens.

.

.

Now look what you've done.

Congratulations son.

Come here.

[traditional jazz music] Kids have all goneto bed mother.

Time for you as well.

I'm down to the last dozen.

Oh, they can waittill tomorrow.

May I have this dance? [laughs] [giggles] [indiscernible soft chatter] [music plays on Delyle's radio] [gentle knock at the door] Hey Emily.

What are you doing here? I needed to see you.

Sure.

Let's go outside though, before someone sees you.

I have to go toCalifornia to help my sister Jodiwith her children.

Is everything all right? It's just hard for herwith Jeff being away.

Do you need me to drive you? No, thank you.

I'll catchthe Hound in the morning.

Is there anything I can do? You're sweet, but no I shouldonly be gone a few weeks, I want to see youin the playoffs.

I know you'll be great.

This is all I have butI want you to take it.

I have enough, thank you.

I should go pack and you haveto go back to your studies.

Call me when you get there.

I will.

I love you Em.

And your shot from the top ofthe key, it was amazing! -Great game tonight, son.

-Dad! You should have toldme you were in town, I would have got you tickets.

I was in town on business, I just wanted to surprise you.

Well, you did.

It's great to see you.

Have you eaten?Want to get something? -I would love that.

-OK, let's go.

Lyman's discharged fromthe Navy next week.

You think you can makeit back for his homecoming? We're on the road inArizona next week, but I could drive up as soonas we get back in town.

He'll be happy to see youwhenever you can get there.

They all will.

How is everyone? Well, your mother missesyou, of course.

There's no one to cookfor or fuss over.

Have you heard from Emily?When's she back? Well, she's busy withher sister's kids.

Should be back ina week, I guess.

Oh.

Oh, and I forgot to mention.

Deverl Herzog had hismission farewell last week.

He's leaving forSouth Texas tomorrow.

-I got a letter from him lastweek.

-Mm.

Yeah, he's going to makea great missionary.

You're doing what you love son, and that's good too.

Your brothers would be proud.

All of them.

I know, Dad.

Thanks.

Yeah.

How you kids listen to thatmusic I'll never know.

It's just yelling syllables.

You're showing yourage now, Pop.

Yeah, well, maybe I am.

You make sure you gethome to see your brother, first chance you get.

He's been gone a long time.

I will dad.

See you on home plate.

Bottom of the ninth.

It's a big game OK, let's justhave some fun.

And you try and remember toactually put some in the ring.

[all laugh] Like last time, the bestshooter in the team.

Get out of here.

Give me that! I always show you how it's done.

You made it! Delyle.

.

.

I need tospeak with you.

I can't now, I'll seeyou after the game.

We'll go somewhereand celebrate.

I can't marry you, Delyle.

What? Emily, I'll see you afterthe game.

We can talk then.

There's nothing to talk about.

I just can't marry you.

But.

.

.

why? -Here we go honey.

-Oh, thank you dear.

There must be somethingwe can do for him.

Mother, we can't fighttheir battles for them.

All we can do is loveand support them.

But look at him.

He's lost.

I'm worried for him.

All right.

I'll talk to him.

OK.

Son.

Take a break, your motherbrought some lemonaide.

Training camp starts ina couple of weeks.

So what are youplanning on doing? Because you've been mopingaround here like a lame steer, and I think anapology is in order.

I'm sorry, dad.

Not me, the backboard.

[scoffs] I should have goneto California with her.

I was so stupid to lether go on her own.

Did you ever stop and thinkthat it wasn't meant to be? You did everything right, son.

But it's God's will, it's notyours.

It won't be the last time thata girl does your head in.

It's not like thatwith you and Mom.

[laughs] We've had our moments, we justdon't do it in front of you.

I'd be a weak man if I letanger control my emotions.

I just.

.

.

I thought she was the one.

H'm.

I know the experts say that youcan't truly know love until you've hadyour heart broken.

Did you ever get yours broken? No.

[laughs] And there hasn't been aday that I haven't loved your mother with all my heart.

So what do the experts know?Right? Ex means old, and spurt is a [together].

.

.

drip of water.

You can, however, use whatyou're feeling inside to help make youa better person.

Son.

.

.

the decisions you makenow will determine the rest of your life.

So choosethings that help you grow.

I know you are going tochoose the right path.

Hey.

I want those boys doing fastbreaks all the way down theline.

[knock on the door] Delyle, come on in.

Could I please speakto you, Coach? You're cutting it pretty fineson, you almost missed the bus.

I'm not getting on the bus.

Snowy, would you give us amoment please? I've decided I'm going to.

.

.

I'm going to serve a mission.

Why would you want to do that? It's the right time in my life.

If I don't go now, I'll probably never go.

So.

.

.

I heard about your fiancé, son.

And I have to tellyou from experience, that you can't makedecisions like this when your brain is all messedup because of a girl.

I want you to thinkcarefully about this.

We're creating a legacy thatwill be the envy of otherschools.

If you leave now, you'regoing to miss it.

No, it's not a decisionI've come to easily.

It's been on mymind a lot lately, and I need to go and serve.

It's the right thing to do.

You can convince yourself thatalmost anything is the the right thing' to do.

Playing basketballcan be the right thing.

This team's capable of anything.

You're capable of anything.

But I'm telling you now, if youleave now to serve on a mission, This.

.

.

all this is gone.

.

.

and I don't think you'll everplay basketball again.

I'm sorry, Coach.

My mind is made up.

Condie.

Good luck son.

[uplifting music] This is heavy.

Bye brother.

Don't forget Ted.

-Really?[both laugh] Oh, you.

Write to me every week, OK? Let me know if youneed some food.

Goodness knows whatthey eat down there.

Boil the water before you drinkit and don't go to the outback! [sighs] God be with youtill we meet again.

Bye.

I guess this is it, Dad.

It's really happening.

It's an honour and a privilegeto have you as my son.

I'll see you on home plate.

Bottom of the ninth.

Yeah.

[ship horn bellows] [seagulls screech] Hi! You must be Condie?I've been waiting for you.

-I'm Elder Groberg.

-Pleased to meet you.

Good times, huh?Grab your stuff, let's go.

So, are you headingto Australia too? -No, I'm getting off at Tonga.

-Tonga? Sounds like heaven.

[uplifting music] [woman]Are you getting on?Excuse me sir.

[man]Come on man, on you go! How are you today sir? [woman in car]Bonjour Bruno, welcome! [ship horn bellows] [car horn toots] Elder Condie?Welcome to Melbourne.

I'm Elder Johnson, Brother Jones is driving.

-Welcome sir.

-This is Elder Christensen.

Good to meet you.

And that gentleman is yourcompanion, Elder Morton.

How was the journey? Well, I fed most of thefish in the Pacific, but other than that it was OK.

I'm keen to get tothe mission home, have a shower and get settled.

Oh you will, but first we'regoing to make a detour.

We've got a game on.

Of course you'vejust arrived, so, why take you straightto the mission home? Let's go play a game instead.

-A game?-Basketball.

You're playing basketball?On your mission? Yeah! Australia is not likeanywhere else on this planet.

You're not in Idahoanymore, Toto.

Thank you.

So.

.

.

are you Australian? Excuse me? I'm British! -From Britain?-I speak the Queen's English.

Not the gibberish they calllanguage here.

Don't confuse me with thesebarbarians again.

-Well.

.

.

-I'm kidding.

It's a joke.

Well, not about the barbariansthough.

That bit's true.

Condie, we're a man short.

We're gonna need you to play.

I don't have any gear.

What you're wearing will do.

[indiscernible banter] Right, here we go boys! [the men call to each other] Great work boys.

Nice work boys.

-Yeah!-Great game.

Good job guy.

Well played Condie, well played.

You played a goodgame tonight, Jim.

More Americans? G'Day, I'mElspeth this is my husband Jim.

-What are you doing?-Just saying hi.

Sorry! You get use to it.

President Bingham'sexpecting us.

Any advice before I meet him? -He's not too bad really.

-[laughs] OK.

[knock at the door]-Come in! Elder Condie, welcometo the mission.

-Thank you sir.

-So, how was the game tonight? Well, we won sir.

I understand you playedin your regular attire? Yes, sir.

.

.

I didn't know I wasgoing to be playing basketball.

Well, it's a good thing you wonas I have to inform you that's the last game you'll beplaying while you're here.

As of today I'm going to stopall activities that don't directly relate to our work.

We didn't comehere to play sport.

We have to getour house in order and that means not wasting time.

This is a verydifficult Mission, as you'll come to understand.

You'll need to beobedient and steadfast.

Find, teach, baptise.

Now, get some rest.

Tomorrowyou hit the ground running.

[together]Thank you sir.

[birds sing] Welcome to the room Condie, that's you just there.

Bathroom is just there.

That's it.

This is the most beautiful ringI've ever seen.

I've already picked out ourfirst child's name.

-Just so you know.

-Oh, you have? Yes.

.

.

It will be a boy.

Noah Lethan Condie.

-A boy huh?-Mm.

Great names, but do I get a say? You can pick outthe girl's names.

OK.

.

.

Well.

.

.

In that case.

.

.

I like.

.

.

Jezebell.

I thought you were serious.

[both laugh] I'm so happy right now.

Well! Look at you, all keenand eager on your first day.

Well, I'm excited to getout and meet some people.

Yeah, that'll wearoff soon enough.

What do you mean? Eagerness is good, but yougotta prepare yourself.

For what? What? Never mind, you'll find out soon enough.

Hello, I'm Elder Condie and.

.

.

Well, at least yougot to say hello.

Hello sir! We're missionariesfrom the Church of Jesus– [indiscernible conversation] [boys laugh] -You kids are—Stop.

[dog barks] Is every day like today? Not every day.

There are some good days.

When you find someonewho wants to listen, it's like walking on air.

How do you handle it?The rejection, I mean? I leave in two weeks Condie.

I've learnt to get over it.

You have to.

And you justdo what you have to.

Sometimes I say to myself, Norman, why go through all this for people who don't care.

Because it's why we're here.

You say that when we haveenough tomato seeds to start a market garden.

-You're first name's Norman?-Mm.

Norman the Mormon? Oh.

.

.

God sure blessed you! Yes, He did! Wow.

[crickets chirp] [reflective music] Dear Dad.

I've never taken anything forgranted or expected things to be handed to me on a platter.

But boy, I couldsure use a break.

It seems every day is a test.

Great as Australian people arethey are steadfast and stubborn Most have little or no time forus and I fear my foot may soon break from all thedoors slammed on it.

Hello, how are you? Some days really get me down and I'm worried too many more ofthese might take a heavy toll.

Have I made a mistake, Dad? I would have beenmarried by now.

Elder Morton goes home this week so I'm getting a newcompanion, too.

I miss you and Mom so much.

You ever heard of Vegemite?Best to avoid it at all costs.

My Dear Son.

In our life are challenges.

They can make you growand bring you closer to God, or you can let them destroy you.

The choice, as always, is yours.

You didn't think a missionwould be easy did you? This is about your faithas much as theirs.

Try to find common groundwith these people, something that appeals to them.

You can be all things to allpeople if you choose to be.

Your loving father.

This is our bungalow, Mrs Tonkinis the landlady.

She's sweet.

Is she Mormon? No, her and her daughtersare Salvation Army.

Daughters, huh? Obviously they don't do thecleaning then? Sorry about the mess.

You can have the bed over hereand hang your clothes in there.

Clearly, you miss your mom.

Morton was the cleaninglady in this companionship.

So what's your story Elder? My story?Are you writing a book? We all have one.

Why we're here, I mean.

I'm here to serve a mission.

I was just trying to getto know my companion.

I didn't mean to be intrusive.

If you don't want to talk, that's fine by me.

I'm sorry, I'm just tired.

I almost didn't come here.

I had no intentionto serve a mission.

But it didn't turn out that way.

I'm keen to get out andmeet the people tomorrow.

Oh, you will.

You like tomatoes? I guess.

.

.

why? [both laugh] You'll see.

Don't put your handsor feet near the door if you ever wantto use them again.

Hello.

I'm Elder Condieand this is Elder Hull.

We're missionaries.

.

.

and we'd like to share amessage with you.

You get away from her! I know all about you Mormons.

You take young girlsaway to marry them.

Well, you're nottaking my daughter! Get off my property! -Run! Run![dog barks] [news announcer]Melbourne at this moment is in the throws of eventspreparations for the Olympic Games, which willbe the first to be held in the Southern Hemisphere.

Six thousand athletes from all around the world willdescend on our Nation and construction is wellunderway to house them just outside town.

For good will andfair play it's going to be a red letter day, not only forMelbourne but for all Australia when the Olympic fanfare ringsout and the Olympic flag is hoisted at the stadium.

Hi Jim.

[indistinct chatter] Stan.

.

.

how are we going? Have you seen the size of theplayers on the other teams? Look, obviously we can'tcompete on height.

We just have to concentrateon skills and tactics.

[player] Ah, come on! It's our first Olympics.

We just have to train hard, teach them what we can.

You never know.

Mate it'd take 20 years to whipthis lot into decent shape.

You just gotta have a littlefaith my friend.

[both snicker] [player]Come on boys, come on! I'm starving.

What did SisterTonkin make for us today? [retches]Oh, vegemite! I hate this stuff.

It's like eating axle grease.

It's probably allshe can afford.

Someone's got to saysomething to her.

You can.

I'd rathersuffer in silence.

I'm so hungry I could eata Vegemite sandwich.

I hate Vegemite, I hate flies, and I hate rude people.

You hate a lot of things Condie.

I'm just happy to be here.

[ball bounces] Hi there! You play basketball? Yeah.

So? Mind if we take a shot? If you want.

Wow! How did you.

.

.

-Hello again.

-Elspeth, wasn't it? That's right!We met at the basketball.

Right, Elder Condie.

We were just walking by andsaw your son shooting baskets.

-We didn't mean to intrude.

-Oh no, Brett's my brother.

This is Elder Hull.

This is Elspeth.

Her husband plays in the localleague, he's a good player.

Pleased to meet you, ma'am.

You should see thisguy shoot the ball! He got it in fromway back here! It's been hard onhim since Mum died.

Dad's a boozer, so he's never around.

But we're better offwithout him anyway.

What about you?What are you blokes all about? Well.

.

.

Oh, here's Jim now.

Jim! Come and meet the Elders.

I'm so sorry, I think thathe's had a hard day.

Hull, we best be going anyway.

When can you come back?Tomorrow? I'll see what I can do.

Thanks for the water.

Oh wait, should we go backand give them a book.

I think we wore outour welcome today.

I think we're going tohave to be realistic and look at these Olympicsas gaining experience.

This isn't a training exerciseStan it's the Olympic Games.

Got the whole nation lookingover our shoulders.

Mate, there just aren't enoughhours in the day to get them to where they need to be.

Imagine if we had the collegesystem here, hey? Imagine the players we'd havethen, the experience.

We can't replicatethat in six months! Don't worry.

.

.

with Roseand Fraser in the pool, I doubt anyone willeven know we're there.

You know If our boys could playas well as you can swill beer, we'd win a flamin' medal.

Yes, we would.

Hey, six o'clock swill.

I wanna get home beforeBetty puts the kids to bed.

-I'll see you later.

See youBill! -Seeya.

[both sigh]-This is becoming pointless.

Come on Condie.

Things willturn around if we have faith.

Faith is something that isso foreign to these people.

Can't they see that we'rejust trying to help them? You've only got 13 months left.

You just gottakeep chipping away.

I don't want tojust chip away'.

I want to make a differencein peoples lives.

I'm not giving up two years ofmy life just to pass the time.

There has to be someonehere who wants to listen.

I'm not giving upuntil I find them.

So let's just tract the rest ofthis street and call it a day.

I'm beat anyways.

[birds chirp] [knocks on door][dog barks] [footsteps approach] Good afternoon ma'am, I'm ElderCondie and this is Elder Hull.

We're missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christof Latter Day Saints.

If you have a spare moment, we'd like to share animportant message with you.

Oh! Well you probablywant my husband.

He gets all the importantmessages.

Ken! There's some young menat the door with an important message for you.

[shouts]How important's the message? Well, I don't know.

They didn'tsay what the message was.

Well, it couldn't be thatimportant.

Did you ask them? No! They've got something todo with ladders and snakes.

What! They're visionariesor something.

They look very official.

They've got accents.

What can I do for you chaps? We're from the Church of JesusChrist of Latter Day Saints.

We'd like to share aspiritual message with you.

Oh, right.

.

.

we're pretty goodfor spiritual messages today.

Thanks very much.

Thank you all the same sir.

Have a nice day.

No worries.

[whispers]Were they the police? -No, they weren't the police.

-Well I don't know! Hey! Hang on fellows.

[clicks his fingers]Are you chaps Mormons? Yes, sir we are! Didn't I see youplaying basketball? Yes! Ken Watson's my name.

-Elder Condie.

-Hello.

-Elder Hull.

-Why don't you come inside.

Thank you sir! -It's a beautiful home.

-Thank you.

[quiet background chatter] Stan! Stan.

I have solvedall our problems.

-You have?-Mormons.

-Mormons?-Mormon basketballers.

[both laugh] -Beer mate?-Ah.

.

.

yes, yes alright.

-Yeah, two beers.

-Yeah.

-Hey?[both laugh] Oh, Mr Watson, this ismy wife, Sister Bingham.

-It's very nice to meet you.

-Please, have a seat.

Thank you.

Mr Watson, could I offeryou a refreshment.

A glass of water perhaps? Oh a cup of tea would be lovely.

We don't have tea.

I canoffer you milk or water.

Oh right.

Ah, well, whateveryou have will be fine thank you.

Adele, would you fetch Mr Watsonand me a glass of water please? Of course.

Mr Watson, on the telephone yousaid that you needed our help.

Yes, yes I do.

I'm the coach of theAustralian basketball team, as I'm sure you know, the Olympics are coming.

Look, I'll be honest.

.

.

we're struggling.

And we could really appreciate going up against someplayers with experience.

-Thank you.

-Oh, thank you.

Otherwise we'regonna get thrashed.

I'm sorry Mr Watson but we havedisbanded the basketball program Yes, they're here to work, not to play athletics.

Oh.

.

.

Mr Bingham, President.

I don't know a greatdeal about your church.

But I do know thoseboys are some of the finest examples ofbasketballers in this country.

In Australia, our religionis sport.

And if you want toconnect with Aussies, well, then you doit through sport.

Do you have children Mr Watson? Yes, I do.

Well then you'll know you must provide them with strictrules and discipline.

These boys need to beattentive and obedient and not partake in, shallwe say, worldly activities.

Oh missus.

Basketball is a good wholesomesport started by Christians.

But I can see you'vehave made up your mind.

It's simply not whythey're here.

We could do great things.

To the church.

.

.

for basketball.

I hope you'll think about it.

[sister Bingham scoffs]-I'm sorry we can't help you.

-Well, thank you anyway.

-Thanks for coming.

-Good bye Mr Watson.

-Please.

Wouldn't have a bar of it.

I thought theywere here to teach? Church stuff, not basketball.

He was adamant! His wife even more so.

And do you know what? They wouldn't even giveme a cuppa tea.

Well, if those Mormon boysare anything like my kids.

.

.

they won't listento what they're told.

Ken.

.

.

what President Binghamdoesn't know won't hurt him.

[Hull]Now, do not let him through, OK? Hang in there!Get your hands in there! Don't let him shoot!Don't! Come on! Thanks for lettingus come around.

I haven't seen him smilethat much in a long time.

It's good for him.

And because he's small for hisage, he has trouble fitting in.

Well, he sure doeslove basketball.

Doesn't have much of a choicewith Jim playing all the time.

It's a good sport.

He sure doesidolise you blokes.

Mostly Hull.

He's a swell kid.

Would you liketo stay for tea? Yes! Thank you! [all laugh] Don't let him shoot again! Ha! Oh, yeah! -Ready? Ready?-Oh, yeah! Who's Stan Page? -Stan, Stan!-What? -Hello!-Fellas.

I'm Stan Page.

I believeyou've already met Ken.

Thanks for coming.

We got your note.

How can we help you? We were hoping to appeal toyour sensibilities as sportsmen.

Yes, this is our Olympic squad.

As you can see, they're pretty raw.

We want you to work withus on our skills and drills.

And I could certainly use somehelp as far as coaching goes.

I'm sorry Coach but we're notallowed to play basketball.

No well we thought you wouldhelp us on your days off.

You know, sort of on the slyif you know what I mean? That's not possible sir.

[Stan]Don't you miss it? The thrill of the gamewhen the buzzer goes! You have a chance tohelp these boys with.

.

.

basketball! I don't think you understand.

What you're asking would goagainst everything we stand for.

Oh well, we didn't realise that! Ah.

.

.

sorry.

They could send us home.

Really? Yes.

I'm sorry sir.

-Well, that went well.

-Mm.

Can you believe them?Asking us to be disobedient.

Yeah.

Wait, you're notthinking about it? No! No way, of course not.

But you've got to admit, it's a great opportunity.

For what? Think of the doorsthis could open for us Like with Brett and Elspeth.

The only reason we got invitedin was because of basketball.

This is different.

Yeah.

Yeah it is this is bigger! This is the Olympic team! Imagine all the peoplewe could reach! No more being hosed off lawns.

No more doors in the face.

Even if you're right, President Bingham said no.

Find, teach, baptiseis what he said.

You're prodding at atiger in it's cage here.

We should be sharing our skills.

Basketball.

.

.

it can breakdown barriers for us! I'm going to talk toPresident Bingham Are you crazy? We're beingdisobedient just by being here.

Just relax, OK? President Bingham'sreally just a teddy bear.

Yeah but Sister Bingham's like adragon.

She's really scary! At the moment we're justthese strange Americans who knock on people's doors.

But they love sport, andthey're crazy for the Olympics.

If we help them with this wecan break down so many barriers.

We'll be a partof their community.

Elder Condie, your enthusiasmis admirable, but misguided.

You need to re-channel all thatenthusiasm into missionary work.

I have been, President Bingham.

Every day we go out tracting and I can tell you first handthat getting our message across is that much easier whenthere's a point of connection.

Like basketball.

There's this young boy, Brett– Elder Condie.

if you wanted to playbasketball so much you should havestayed in College.

We are not a basketball team, I am not your coach.

I understand that, sir! -But—No buts! We have but one purposeand one purpose only.

We cannot do our work if weare distracted playing sports.

Gentlemen, let this be the lasttime we talk of this matter.

Are you OK? [sighs heavily] [Hull snores] [reflective music] [sighs] My son is anintuitive young man.

And he feels that basketballcould be the means to help them to connectwith the people.

And indeed ingratiatethemselves into the community.

Brethren.

Elder Tanner passedthis onto me from his good friend Brother Condie.

Missionary work is hard enoughwithout us making it harder.

We send our fine young menout into the mission field.

And we have anopportunity to assist them to bring others intothe arms of the lord.

And that is exactlywhat I intend to do.

Elder Condie, you musthave prayed very hard.

Salt Lake has proposed that weput a basketball team together in order to helpthe Australians.

And I'm putting youin charge of it.

We'll do whateveryou ask of us, sir.

I want to make it absolutelyclear from the outset, that there will becertain parameters.

Elders will not be distractedfrom their missionary work.

You will be given oneday a week to practice.

I want you to work closelytogether with Elder Burt to hand pick the best teamfrom the Mission.

Don't let me down.

Johnson was at BYU.

Where's he servingat the moment? He's in Adelaide.

But hegoes home in a few weeks.

Dang.

West andGrant were at the U.

Grant's in Tasmania.

Elder Garn was a starterat Sugar City Idaho.

Oh, yeah, I remember playingagainst him.

That guy is fast.

Frodsham is a good all roundsportsman, he played at BYU.

He's tough as nails too.

Elder Hull, sit up straight! That is not a footrest and thisis not a Chinese bath house! Do up your tie! [sighs] So, are you Eldersstaying for dinner, then? We hadn't planned to, so pleasedon't go to any trouble for us.

Well, I'm planning foryou and I already have.

So it's settled.

I still think all ofthis is a silly idea, but if President Mckaythinks we should.

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then I will support it.

Oh! And don't forgetElder Kimball.

He was a star atProvo High School.

Let me be quite clear.

You are first andforemost missionaries.

You'll manage your time well, but if you're workshould suffer.

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then you will be relieved'of this assignment.

Basketball doesn't convertpeople to the Gospel.

So always remember who youare and what you stand for.

Yes, sir.

When you guard me you wantto stand closer if you can.

Yeah and keep low.

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you'llsee which way I'm going to cut.

Yep.

Good, that's it, well done! Halt! If you spread your handswider on the ball -it's easier to control.

-I don't need any help from you! OK.

-Hey, come on.

-Time out! Let's just have a spell fellows.

Can you try to put into practicewhat it is they're telling us.

They're here to help us! -We don't need these guys!-Yes, we do Jim.

We can't run to the Yanks everytime we need our necks saved.

It was bad enoughduring the bloody war.

So, what can we doto improve ourselves? Playing basketball is one thing.

How you live yourlife is another.

All I'm just saying to you guys, if you're smoking and drinking, you're crucifying your bodiesand wasting your life.

You don't see us running upcourt gasping for air do you? Hey! Go back and join your team.

I don't need sermons.

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And I don't need them totell me how to live my life.

I think you do Jim, 'cause yournot doing a very good job of it.

Go back and joinyour team.

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please.

I've seen you all doing theshots, that's great, you've gotthe two handed set shot, but we really want to startfocusing on the jump shot.

And, the point of the jump isto shoot from a higher position to make it more difficultfor the defender to block.

It also lowers theangle of the basket.

So, let's try some! [player]Let's do it, come on boys! [radio announcer]Now we're privileged to have in the studio, members of theMormon Yankees basketball team.

[Elder Condie]We sure appreciate you taking -the time to talk to us.

-Listen! It's the Elders! -I hear you and your team.

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-That's Elder Condie! -.

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played the state team.

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-I just love their accents.

-.

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yes sir, that's correct! Oi! We're listening to that! I've heard some bad thingsabout these Mormons.

They sacrifice live goats andtry to trap you into their cult.

They don't do that, Jim!They're very nice people.

Well, I'll have nothingto do with em, and neither will you if youwant to stay married to me.

And no more going to theirChurch, it's a waste of time.

Stop being a drongoand fix the car.

Shhh, I can't hear.

Well, we wish you and your teamthe best for the coming game.

And now, a wordfrom our sponsor.

[crickets chirp][cow bellows] So the State team invite us toplay in a city two hours away, and we have to hitch hikewhile the others drive? How did we drawthe short straw? Think of it as a wayto meet people.

Hey! It says here the discoveryof gold in Bendigo during the 1850's made it one ofthe most significant Victorian boom towns in Australia.

Hey, we might find a nugget! I need to find a bathroom.

And get bit on thebutt by a snake? I'll hold.

I think we should split up.

be a lot easier to pickup two than four.

Good idea.

We'll run ahead and if you get a ride, havethem pick us up.

Something on your mind? How can you keeppushing all the time? Doesn't this ever get to you?Don't you miss your family? Yeah, I do, I just keep working.

Yeah, I am working.

More than I've ever worked.

Sacrificed so much, and for what? I just want to be at home, with my family.

You're not the onlyone who feels like that.

The more I let it get to me, the further away I feel.

As much as I wantto be near them.

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to sit on the porch with my dad, or to smell my mom's cooking.

.

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I know this isn't forever.

But I want to finish whatI started here first.

Is your mom a good cook? Oh brother, she's the best.

Thanksgiving especially.

What about yours? Every year my dad would get aturkey before Thanksgiving, and my brother wouldattach himself to it.

Claim it as a pet.

He didn't realise wewere eating his pet, until he was eight or nine.

He's never eaten turkey since.

[both laugh] [car approaches] Hey.

Thanks.

-Where you headin' cobber?-Bendigo.

OK, jump in.

[inspirational music] [car approaches] Hey, here they are! How are you doing guys? Thank you.

-Go, go, go!-No guys, come on! [all laugh] -OK.

-Go, go, go, go! Guys! Stop kiddingaround guys.

Come on! [all laugh] -Real funny guys, real funny.

-Nice one.

[all laugh] [Delyle]What do you meanthey've cancelled the game? I don't know any details.

Theyjust said the game was off.

They couldn'tnotify us earlier? So we hitch hiked allthis way for nothing? Well done, Condie, that's another fine messyou've gotten us into.

[laughs] So.

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what do we do now? Head back home, I guess.

I see what they mean about fourseasons in a day, it's freezing! Hey! Are you guysthose Mormon Yankees? Yes, sir, we are.

Oh, I've been lookingeverywhere for you.

How did you knowwhere to find us? Well, there's not too manyAmerican looking fellas above six foot around here.

I'm John Whitakerfrom the Bendigo Prison.

Heard your game got cancelled.

We were wondering whether you'dbe interested in having a bit of an exhibition game, up at the prison? A prison? Who would we play? Prisoners! I've coachedsome of them into a team.

We play in the local league.

When they heard youwere coming to Bendigo, they all wanted to playthe great Mormon Yankees.

Isn't meant to rain today sir? You're Mormons aren't you? Can't you take care of that? Can I have a quickword with my team? We cannot play in a prison, President Binghamwill freak out.

Can you think of any groupof people under the sun -who we could help more.

-He could send you home! I'm not just passingthe time, Hull.

What if we get stabbed? We're here, we gotnothing else to do.

I saw a James Cagney film once where the prisoners had shivsand stabbed each other.

We'll play, on one condition.

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we get a hot meal.

And some ice cream.

Done! I've spent my whole life livingright and I end up in Prison.

Just don't be herewhen we leave.

Hey, good to see you, thanks boys.

Thanks for coming.

We really appreciate this.

[metal bell] [Song: “She's My Girl”by The Plants] ♪Well I gotta girl♪ ♪She's fine♪ ♪She looks likefine wine♪ ♪She got friends, well that's true♪ ♪I bought bigfrom the zoo♪ ♪But I love her yes I do♪ ♪'Cause she is my girl♪ ♪She got big eyesand juicy lips♪ ♪And when she walks♪ ♪Her hips couldshe got a smile♪ ♪What she said, I giggle a while♪ ♪But I love her yes I do'Cause she is my girl, yeah!♪ ♪If I had to climb a mountainor swim the deepest sea♪ ♪She's the only girl for me♪ ♪That's it, that's all♪ ♪That's look what you♪ ♪But I love her yes I do'Cause she is my girl♪ [rock and roll music continues] [music fades] A prison? What were you thinking? The opportunity was there soI did what I thought was right.

What you thought was right! Elder Condie, I put my faith inyou to make good choices, this was not one of them.

Did you even consider the dangerof what might of happened there? Sir, it's not likewe got stabbed.

Sir, there were guardswith us at all times.

Elder Condie, that ishardly the point.

This game could set the churchback years if word gets out.

Now, these shenanigans must end.

Or you'll find yourselfdoor knocking in the outback.

I doubt they playbasketball out there.

Yes sir.

Mmmm.

These things, are amazing.

How can he not see it? I can't think of a betterway for them to accept us.

Otherwise what's thepoint of being here? You know Condie.

At the start, I was just goingalong with you because you were my companion.

But after the prison match.

.

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one of the inmates askedme to teach him about God.

I think you're ontosomething here and.

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it's kind of exciting.

Are you sure youdon't want some? -[Condie laughs]-It's really good.

So the Olympic Committeewon't allow nations to play each other before theactual games begin.

So they want to puttogether a tournament, where countries can play youboys or some local teams to get some match practicebefore the Olympics.

Us, play againstthe Olympic teams? If you can give them somegood warm up games.

.

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it makes for a better spectacle.

We'd have to run it pastPresident Bingham first.

And I'm not exactly hisfavourite person right now.

Wouldn't you want to goagainst the best in the world? See how good you can be? And see us getour trash kicked? Oh no son.

No, you're as good asI've ever seen.

We'll ask.

But don'thold your breath.

You boys have got a fan.

Excuse me sir, could Iplease have your autograph? Sure! Do you play? Oh, my brother and Ionly really just started.

We usually play footy.

Well, basketball will be ablessing in your life.

-What's your name?-Lindsay.

Lindsay Gaze.

-It's nice to meet you Lindsay.

-Thanks.

Don't worry.

If Bingham's goingto flip I'll take the heat.

No you won't.

We're companions.

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I'm with you all the way.

What is it, my dear? [Sister Bingham sighs] That was Governor Souterfrom Bendigo Prison.

The inmates have asked thatwe send missionaries to teach.

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at the prison! Apparently all thisbasketball nonsense may have its merits after all.

You've always chosen the right, and taken care of the underdog.

And the man I knowwould never be afraid to admit when he'sbeen wrong before.

They are our boys.

We better find out whatthese games are all about.

[both laugh] [radio announcer]With the Olympics now days away, basketball fever appears to besweeping the Nation.

with teams playingexhibition matches to showcase this growing sport.

Crowd favorites, the Mormon Yankees are set to take on the Russians after their convincingwin over China.

These boys are set to win heartsand minds all across the country with their skills shiningagainst the best in the world.

[indiscernible banter] [player]That's right, that's good! [player] Just pass it off.

Good, good, good really nice.

We should play these Americans.

Why would we play them? They offer nothing to us.

No.

They don'trepresent their country.

We need the practice.

We haven't played anyonesince we got here.

It's not a practiceto win so easily.

It's the Olympics, there isno room for religion here.

[rock and roll musicplays on the radio] You going to watchany events, Frank? I wouldn't know what to watch.

So many weird sportsI've never even heard of.

You should stillsupport your country.

Well, when they have footy orcricket in there I'll go watch.

Think I'll go and watchDawn Fraser in the pool.

Hey! Are you blokes thoseMormon Yankees? Yes, sir, we are.

Fair dinkum? That's you blokesIn the paper? [Frank laughs] We've got some famouspeople in here, Syd! No charge for you blokes.

– Thank you sir!-Hey.

Make sure you give those Ruski'sa run for their money tonight.

[all laugh] We'll do our best.

I'll sign off now.

Give my loveto James and the girls, and mom.

Of course, and thank you againdad.

As always, your loving son.

-Oh.

-Would you look at him.

That's great, that'sagainst the Russians! He looks like he'sdoing well, Pop.

Dear dad.

Our exhibition games havebeen going well.

Leading to many opportunitieswith the Australian people.

Their love of sportis very strong.

And has given us the chance totalk to them in a meaningful way It has certainly lifted spiritsof the Elders on the team.

I finally feel like Iknow why I'm here.

Our game against the French team proved to be one of the toughestchallenges we've had so far.

Their coach picked a disusedwarehouse out of town and kept the pressand public out.

He runs a tight ship.

I think a lot of his team areactually afraid of him.

[Ken]This is going to work inour favour Stan, I just know it.

[men shout and clap] [Delyle]We started strongly.

And managed to get ina few early baskets.

[shouts commands in French] But it's not easy keeping one of the best teams inthe world behind you.

-Ah![whistle blows] They didn't take too kindly toMissionaries taking the lead.

That's for sure.

[men shout][whistle blows] Very good, very good! [Mormon Yankee player]Keep it up boys, keep it tight! [whistle blows] [shouts abuse in French] Boys, if you're going to playlike that, watch yourselves! [men cheer and clap] [Delyle]Stay strong, stay strong! [whistle blows][men clap and cheer] [shouts commands in French] [Mormon Yankee player]Front and guard! [whistle blows] [Delyle]Come on, Ref! [Delyle]Soon we learnt the hard way.

That not everyone plays by thesame rules as we do.

But we kept our cool, even whenthe French were loosing theirs.

[shouts abuse in French] [Stan]Keep your handsto yourself mate! [whistle blows][men clap] [whistle blows][men clap] [Mormon Yankee player]Let's go boys! [whistle blows] He can't do that! He can't do that! [shouts commands in French] [American Yankee player]Let's go! [Stan]Come on boys, you've got this! [whistle blows]Game! [Delyle]We're still achingfrom the encounter.

But can you believe it.

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.

We beat one of the bestteams in the world! [clapping] Thanks for the great game.

Pathetic.

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pathetic! How can you lose to abunch of religious zealots? Coach, they are betterthan we thought.

You will never speakof this game again.

Not any of you, not to anyone, OK? [men chat indistinctly] The French are going aroundsaying that they beat you boys.

They can say whatever they like.

We know what happened.

They're insisting on a rematch.

We'll play them again.

But this time underour conditions.

Olympic Stadium, open to thepublic, with Olympic Referees.

And TV Cameras.

They'll hate it! But anything to see the Frenchget their knickers in a knot! I'm sure we can arrange that.

-We better get back.

-[Ken] Yes, yes.

[Mormon Yankee player]Just pass it off.

Throw the ball across to me.

Nice work! Condie! Bill Russell! Delyle Condie.

I played againstyou at Utah, right? That's right sir.

I'm down hereon a mission for my church.

Well, that's one basketballplayer who got it right.

This here is Coach Tucker.

And this is my team.

Guys, this is Bill Russell, Coach Tucker and the entire American squad! Saw your match the other day.

Some good defence.

Thank you, Coach.

You boys got it.

You alldoing our country proud.

Delyle, best jump shotI ever seen, man! You should havebeen on our team.

So are you guys up for amatch against us? You're a toughteam to track down.

Are you kidding? No we wouldn'tstand a chance against you.

It wouldn't feel right playingagainst our national team.

Well, you think about it.

Anyway, I was hoping you could give usthe lowdown on the Russians.

Well, their tallguy is just that he doesn't do much else.

The one you need to watchthough is the short guy.

-He's fast.

-Right.

Faster than anybodyI've ever seen.

The way he brings itdown the court like that.

He'll put it up and score twobefore you even do anything.

[National news music] With only days to go beforethe opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, we're thrilled to bring youthis live television event on ABC TV tonight.

Behind me, peopleare gathering to watch this exhibition basketball game between the Mormon Yankees, a team made up ofyoung church missionaries, and the French Olympic team.

This is the second time thatthese teams will have met, and we should be setfor an exciting game.

Elder Condie.

Tell me, are you anxious aboutthis evening game? Anxious? Ah.

.

.

I'm excited.

The French are incredibleplayers they're a great team.

The Mormon Yankees, we'reexcited to play our best so.

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That's fantastic congratulationsand good luck sir! Roger Breedy ABC TV.

[crowd applauds] [rhythmic clapping] [TV announcer]Welcome to this iconic broadcast from Melbourne'sOlympic Stadium.

For the grudge match betweenthe Mormon Yankees and the French Olympic Team.

As you know, the Mormon Yankeeshave helped coached our Australian team, And they've also had practicematches with other Olympic teams If I could have a moment.

After today's over, we go back to beingjust Missionaries.

Go on.

.

.

go on.

My father once told me that.

.

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basketball could bring peoplefrom all walks of life together.

No matter what colour orreligion you are.

These people arehere to watch us! We've been blessed.

Just want to say thank you.

To all of you.

Including you, President.

I was told thatserving a Mission would be the besttwo years of my life.

And it has been.

To be able to use thegame that I love.

.

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to bring peopletowards Salvation.

It's a story worth telling ourkids about, right? As you all know, I wasn't in favour ofallowing my missionaries to play organized basketball.

But I was wrong.

The sportsmanship thatyou have exhibited to everyone who'sseen you play, is going to changepeople's hearts.

You've done us proud.

Now, I don't knowmuch about basketball but I know tonight we going tobeat the pants off the French.

Elder Garn, would youlead us in prayer please? Dear Heavenly Father, We thank you forthis opportunity to play this game.

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[uplifting music] [applause and cheering] [TV announcer]The crowd are on their feet as the Mormon Yankeesenter the stadium.

-There he is.

-Who? -Delyle.

-Where? He's the starplayer of the team.

[TV announcer]These American missionaries are set to take onthe best in the world.

Coming to you live from Olympic Stadiumin Melbourne Australia.

Yankees on three.

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one, two, three, Yankees! The starting line up forthe Mormon Yankees are Condie, Hull, Frodsham, Kimball and Garn.

With the French team fielding Ray, Antoine, Monclar, Beugnot and Grange.

[American National Anthem plays] -Dad, what are they singing?-The National Anthem.

Stirring moments indeed.

[crowd cheers] If they use rough tactics on usI want you to be our enforcer.

Within the spirit ofthe game, of course.

You don't have toask me twice.

I'll show those winesippers how we play ball.

-Missionary style.

-Garn.

Monclair's their go-to guy.

Ifyou give him space he'll score.

Not tonight, he's not.

Let's play ball boys! [Announcer]And we're set for the tip off.

-Very short shorts.

-[snickers] The French arecertainly athletic and one of the bestteams in the world.

They'll be looking to dominatethis American Mormon team.

[whistle blows][crowd cheers] [Announcer]First possession goes to the Mormon Yankees, Hull carrying the ball.

A low pass fromGarn to Kimball.

The Yankees look incomplete control here.

Frodsham to Condiewho goes up and the Yankees are first to score! [crowd cheers] Ray is bringing the balldown for the French, but the Yankee defenceis looking solid.

To Antoine now who makesshort work of Garn and passes to Monclar.

Monclar is going in and.

.

oh he goes down! Just minutes in and this gameis already getting physical.

[Referee]Seven, push.

Prepare for war.

Oh yeah? How did thelast one work out? Monclar easily takinghis free throw as the tension mountsbetween these two teams.

[crowd cheers] [whistle blows]And another golden boy goes down [crowd jeers] Foul on 12 white.

.

.

push.

What are they doing? That was aninteresting call Ref.

If you don't like it, too bad! Oh no, you were spot on, it was most definitely a foul.

-Thank you.

-It's just for the wrong team.

[Announcer]A foul called on the Yankees! The crowd clearly showing theirdispleasure at this decision.

As the French score, slowlystarting to pull ahead.

A long ball finds Hull.

Shifts it to Condie.

[whistle blows]He's contacted by Beugnot.

Condie's on his feet, but theyare really taking a beating.

Clearly the French are trying tointimidate the Mormon Yankee's with some rough tactics.

With Hull now.

[half time siren blares] And he too goes downas we hit half time.

Oh no! The French are the fourthranked team in the world and are pulling out all stopsagainst these young Mormons.

Leading them by just four pointsat this stage of the game.

[crowd claps rhythmically] [Delyle]Right, listen, listen! Those guys are going tothrow everything at us.

Prepare yourselves! If we can ride the knocks andhold them steady we can win this Hull, huh?Are you OK? -Yeah.

-OK.

What do you call that?! You are letting themhumiliate you again.

In front of the wholeworld this time! Coach, they are playingsuperb basketball.

And you are playingfor your superb country?! Does that not meansomething to you?! Remember why we got onthat boat to come out here.

This is not for us, but for allof those who are following us.

And for those whoare cheering for us.

OK this.

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this is our time.

Come on boys! Come on boys, come on! [crowd cheers] [uplifting music] [Announcer]And Condie scores again! [all cheer] [Announcer]Antoine is moving up the court.

The momentumshifting to the French.

As they swiftly close the gap.

[whistle blows][crowd boos] Let's start Yankees.

Tight defence! [whistle blows][crowd boos] [together] Boo![Baby cries] [Announcer]A pass to Beugnot.

Hull steals.

And he's running down the clock.

[whistle blows]Foul by the French Captain! That's five fouls for him.

And he takes aseat on the bench.

Those Mormon Yankees arethe best we've ever played.

[Announcer]This match has beena war of attrition by the French wearing down the Yankees who areshowing clear signs of fatigue.

[whistle blows] Yeah, Kimball! [whistle blows] [Announcer]And Condie goes down! He appears to be out cold.

Come on kid you gottaget up and keep going.

[crowd roars]Condie is up, He is on his feet! Just listen to that crowd! [Hull]We got this Condie, we got this! [Hull]Time out, time out Ref! Hey.

.

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you all right? There's no shamein retiring son.

Your health is much moreimportant than just a game.

No.

.

.

this is more thanjust a game, sir.

To them.

Yes it is! Look around at the bleachers.

these people whoused to shun us, and slam doors on ourfaces are cheering for us.

And here, tonight.

.

.

I want people to remember theMormon Yankees for who we are and what we stand for! Yankees will have toforfeit the match.

Says who? How can they play withthree on the floor? Are you going to tell all thesepeople they have to forfeit hey? [crowd claps and chants]It's an exhibition game, mate! They can hang from the bloodyrafters if they want to! Play ball! [crowd chants]Let them play, let them play! [Ken Watson]Did you hear what I said? [crowd chants]Let them play, let them play! [Ken Watson angrily]Did you hear what I said?! [Ken Watson] Blow your whistleand let's get started! Go on! [crowd cheers and roars] [Announcer]Play ball said the Referee! This is extraordinary!The Yankees, with only threemen on the court! And just seconds remaining.

This game is going to godown to the wire! We can run down the clockand score two to win it.

But we must get possession.

Hull.

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.

Kimball.

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There are no plays that Ican tell you from now.

From now, it's all instinctive.

Come on, come on! Now the Yankees are down tothree fit men on the court.

Well, you'll never know thatthese two countries were allies during the war.

This is what you'd expectfrom the Russians.

[crowd cheers and claps] Come on! [uplifting music] [indiscernible on court banter] Come on boys, come on! [Announcer]Score! The French Olympic team have beaten the Mormon Yankeesby the narrowest of margins.

In what can only be describedas a nail biting finish.

[crowd boos and jeers] [crowd claps in unison] [crowd cheers and claps] We played that gamefair and square! You can't have anextra free throw! Travel! We'll protest son! Protest to who, Ken? We're here to give them practiceand that's what we did.

When I'm wrong, I admit it.

Good game, Condie.

You're a great player.

[crowd roars] [Credit music].