The Netflix sports drama The Winning Try concluded its 12-episode run on August 30, 2025, with Hanyang High School’s rugby team achieving a dramatic victory in the national championship. The series ended with a score of 22-19 against rivals Daesang High, capping an emotional journey for players and coaches alike. Coach Ju Ga-ram, played by Yoon Kye-sang, and shooting coach Bae I-ji, portrayed by Im Se-mi, also found personal redemption and happiness after overcoming significant challenges. The finale provided closure for all major character arcs, leaving fans satisfied but curious about the possibility of a second season.
How Hanyang High Won the Nationals
The national championship match was the climax of the series, showcasing the growth of the underdog rugby team. Facing their strongest rivals, Daesang, the Hanyang players executed a strategy designed by Coach Ga-ram, who arrived just before kick-off after undergoing surgery. A key moment came when player Do Hyeong-sik sustained a serious injury but refused to leave the game. He played through pain after receiving stitches without anesthesia, highlighting the team’s determination. The winning points were scored using a maul technique, where the entire team pushed together to cross the line. This play symbolized their unity and hard work throughout the season.
The team’s willingness to sacrifice — Hyeong-sik playing through pain, Ung finally making the tackle when it matters, Seong-jun accepting role changes — turned the maul into a decisive push.
Ju Ga-ram and Bae I-ji’s Happy Ending
The romantic subplot between Ga-ram and I-ji reached a satisfying conclusion. After a decade-long relationship that ended due to Ga-ram’s past drug scandal, the two reconciled through their shared dedication to the students. Ga-ram proposed to I-ji following the national victory, and she accepted. Both were appointed as official coaches for the school—Ga-ram for rugby and I-ji for shooting. Their journey emphasized themes of forgiveness and second chances, mirroring the team’s own path to redemption.
Resolution for Other Key Characters
The finale addressed the futures of several supporting characters. Team captain Seong-jun gained admission to Yeonhee University and confessed his feelings to shooter Woo-jin, agreeing to a long-distance relationship. Player Ung joined the National Youth Team under the guidance of Mo Sang-gi, Ga-ram’s former teammate. Tae-pung, who had transferred to Daesang earlier in the series, returned to Hanyang in a surprise epilogue. The corrupt officials, Vice-Principal Jong-man and coach Nak-gyun, faced consequences for their actions. Nak-gyun was fired after evidence of admission fraud was revealed, and Jong-man was dismissed following an investigation into misuse of school funds. Principal Kang returned to her position, ensuring stability for the school.
The Significance of Ga-ram’s Health Struggle
A major plot point involved Ga-ram’s battle with Myasthenia Gravis, a neuromuscular disease causing muscle weakness and fatigue. His condition led to hospitalization and mandatory surgery just before the nationals. The illness added depth to his character, explaining his past struggles and highlighting his dedication to the team. His collapse in Episode 11 and subsequent surgery created tension, but his recovery and return for the final match demonstrated his resilience. The show used his health crisis to explore themes of accountability and perseverance.
Will There Be a Season 2?
The possibility of The Winning Try returning for a second season is very low. Netflix promoted the series as a limited series, indicating a self-contained story. All major character arcs were resolved, with no cliffhangers left unanswered. The show’s ratings on S TV started at 4.1% and grew to 7.7%, indicating strong viewer interest. However, Korean dramas are rarely renewed for additional seasons unless planned otherwise. The cast and crew are expected to move on to new projects, making a follow-up unlikely.
Additionally, Netflix promoted The Winning Try as a limited series, which typically suggests a single-season format. Limited dramas are written with a definitive ending, leaving little scope for continuation.
Fan Reactions to the Finale
Viewers expressed mixed emotions about the ending, praising the satisfying conclusions but hoping for more stories. Some fans took to social media to share their thoughts.
hanyang.. let’s meet in the final round. garam sent them heartfelt message and that’s how seongjun realized why their coach didn’t share the tactics to win against daesang. bec he’ll meet them himself at the final.
Why make Promises of going to Nationals and then not fulfilling that angle, script writers what the hell. I have seen worse series being aired for 8seasons. Now here is a great relatable series and you just don’t care. I mean come on. I need Season 2 period.
The Winning Try’s Impact and Legacy
The series was praised for blending sports action with emotional storytelling. It highlighted issues like corruption in school systems, parental pressure on athletes, and the importance of mental health. The portrayal of rugby offered a fresh perspective in the K-drama landscape, focusing on a less mainstream sport. The show’s emphasis on teamwork and redemption resonated with audiences globally, making it a standout entry in the sports drama genre. All 12 episodes of The Winning Try are available for streaming on Netflix.
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Credits: DMTalkies, TheReviewGeek
