New season of Ted Lasso portrays mental health in sports

The+show+Ted+Lasso+centers+around+a+soccer+coach%2C+Ted+Lasso%2C+who+is+invited+to+coach+an+English+Premier+League+team+with+no+prior+experience.+This+brings+on+many+struggles+as+he+learns+to+navigate+the+world+of+leadership.+

Amilia Velez

The show Ted Lasso centers around a soccer coach, Ted Lasso, who is invited to coach an English Premier League team with no prior experience. This brings on many struggles as he learns to navigate the world of leadership.

Amilia Velez, Staff Writer

Season 2 of Ted Lasso was released on Apple TV over the summer and has received only positive feedback. The second season was highly anticipated, as the first season was such a big hit. The show quickly went from underdog to nationwide sensation. Fans of Ted Lasso were eagerly waiting for the release of the new season and were not disappointed. 

The show Ted Lasso centers around a soccer coach, Ted Lasso, who is invited to coach an English Premier League team with no prior experience. This brings on many struggles as he learns to navigate the world of leadership. 

While the first season centers mostly on Lasso getting adjusted to the cultural differences of England and getting accustomed to the team, the second season takes a deep dive into the world of mental health and self-help. In season 2 it is discovered that Lasso is struggling with anxiety and is reluctant to reach out for help. The season follows his journey of opening up to his therapist and learning to be vulnerable. I think this is so important and shows how no matter how strong someone appears, everyone has their demons. 

Even though the show has many serious moments dealing with mental and physical health, there is always something to laugh at. Ted Lasso has a naturally bubbly, Southern personality that radiates energy through the screen. Another coach, Roy Kent, has a very blunt and harsh personality, and it’s fun to see him interacting with the other characters. 

One specific thing I appreciated about the show is that each character gets a backstory, which helps develop their character. For example, Jamie Tartt, an AFC Richmond player, is perceived as a self-centered jerk, but later in the show, we find out that he has an abusive dad. The team therapist has a calm and collected persona but behind the scenes, she is struggling with alcohol addiction. These details add so much to the show and make the character relationships so complex.

 The only problem I have with the show is that there seems to be many filler episodes that are not necessary for the storyline. Season 2 features a Christmas special where the team comes together to celebrate the holidays. Although the episode was entertaining, it felt dragged on and unnecessary to the plot. 

Overall, I would rate this show a 5 out of 5, as it was easy to turn on and enjoy. I would recommend this show to anyone who enjoys a good laugh. Any age group will enjoy Ted Lasso, and you don’t need to be interested in soccer to like this show.