Yoon Kye-sang Opens Up About His Role as a Rugby Coach in Inspiring New Drama “The Winning Try”

Veteran actor Yoon Kye-sang is set to make a powerful return to television with SBS’s upcoming 2025 drama “The Winning Try”, a heartwarming sports series centered around a struggling high school rugby team. With the first teasers creating buzz among K-drama fans, Yoon recently opened up about his challenging yet rewarding role as a rugby coach and what audiences can expect from this unique story.

🏉 A Sports Drama With Heart

“The Winning Try” follows the story of Baek Kang-ho (played by Yoon Kye-sang), a former national rugby star whose career was cut short by injury. Disillusioned and living quietly out of the spotlight, Kang-ho is approached by a small, underfunded high school to coach their almost-defunct rugby team.

Initially hesitant, he gradually takes on the role, mentoring a group of students who have more heart than skill. The story is not just about winning on the field—but about finding purpose, rebuilding confidence, and growing stronger through unity and belief.

👨‍🏫 Yoon Kye-sang On Playing a Coach

In a recent press interview, Yoon shared his thoughts on preparing for the role:

“I had to learn everything from the ground up—rules, tactics, even how to properly throw a rugby ball. But more than the physical challenge, I wanted to capture the emotional journey of a man trying to believe in something again.”

He explained that Baek Kang-ho is not your typical inspiring coach from the get-go.

“He’s rough around the edges, impatient, and burdened by his past. But the kids slowly change him. That growth arc really resonated with me.”

🎭 A Cast Full of Rising Stars

While Yoon Kye-sang brings gravitas to the lead role, “The Winning Try” also introduces a fresh lineup of young actors playing the rugby students. Names like Choi Hyun Wook, Kim Do Hoon, and Lee Jae In have been rumored to join, though SBS has yet to confirm.

Each student character has their own backstory—from academic pressure and bullying to broken families and identity struggles. The show promises a multi-layered ensemble that reflects real issues faced by modern youth.

🎬 The Team Behind the Scenes

Directed by Kim Sung Yoon (Itaewon Class, Love in the Moonlight) and written by rising screenwriter Jung Ha Eun, The Winning Try is expected to blend emotional storytelling with sports drama tropes. The creators have stated their goal is not just to entertain but to inspire viewers with themes of teamwork, second chances, and never giving up.

The production team worked closely with actual rugby coaches and school athletes to ensure the game scenes are realistic and emotionally charged.

🧠 A Drama Rooted in Emotion and Motivation

What sets this drama apart is its emotional weight. Rather than focusing solely on action or competition, The Winning Try dives deep into why people fight so hard—for their dreams, their teammates, or their own self-worth.

Yoon Kye-sang said:

“Everyone in this show is trying to make a winning try—not just in the game but in life. That’s what the title means. Sometimes we don’t win the match, but we win something greater.”

📅 Expected Air Date and Broadcast Info

“The Winning Try” is slated to premiere on SBS in Fall 2025, with weekly episodes airing on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10 PM KST. International streaming rights are still in negotiation, but fans can expect subtitles shortly after the Korean air dates.

🌍 Global Fans Anticipate an Underdog Story

K-dramas that highlight underdog stories have always struck a chord with global viewers—from Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo to Racket Boys. With The Winning Try, SBS is set to deliver a drama that’s not only inspirational but deeply relatable, whether you’re an athlete or someone just trying to push forward in life.

🔚 Final Thoughts

Yoon Kye-sang’s return to TV with The Winning Try is already being praised for its depth and promise. With a compelling lead, heartfelt story, and the emotional highs of sports drama, this show could be one of 2025’s most impactful K-dramas.

As the premiere approaches, expectations are high—but if early buzz and Yoon’s dedication are anything to go by, The Winning Try might just score a try in viewers’ hearts.