Video – Rise & Shine: The Jay DeMerit Story Trailer

A moving and inspirational success tale that just happens to be about sports, “RISE & SHINE: THE JAY DEMERIT STORY” has been picked up for distribution in the U.S. and abroad and is set to premiere on November 3rd, 2011. Click here to find a screening near you.

“RISE AND SHINE” was co-directed by filmmakers Ranko Tutulugdzija and Nick Lewis of Truth2Life Productions. The sports documentary follows DeMerit’s heart-tugging transition from undrafted high school and collegiate athlete to lauded professional and internationally respected soccer star.

The 92-minute film traces the Green Bay, Wisc.-native’s journey from failed tryouts with Major League Soccer through early frustrations in English football’s lowest divisions. In an inspiring sports tale, DeMerit ultimately triumphs in soccer glory becoming a captain for England’s Watford FC and joining Team USA as a hard-charging center halfback at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

A captivating tale told through interviews with DeMerit’s coaches, fellow players, family and friends, “RISE & SHINE” features game footage from competitions around the world including cameos by soccer greats such as Wayne Rooney, Didier Drogba and Landon Donovan. DeMerit — whose exploits in England included scoring the so-called “£40 million goal” that helped promote Watford into the lucrative Premier League — hopes to encourage aspiring athletes and others.

Check out our Videos section for game highlights and more soccer related footage.