ESPN Films' Next SEC Storied on Ruthie Bolton Debuts on SEC Network 5/22

By: Caryn Robbins May. 05, 2016

The next installment in ESPN Films' SEC STORIED series, "Mighty Ruthie presented by Cooper Tire," premieres on Sunday, May 22, at 9 p.m. ET on SEC Network. The film looks at gold medalist Ruthie Bolton, former Auburn basketball player and a victim of domestic violence who has become an advocate for women. Trailer: http://bit.ly/1WL6QHi

If her story were only about basketball, Ruthie Bolton would be a legend. The 16th of 20 children born to Leola and Reverend Linwood Bolton in Lucedale, Mississippi, Bolton far exceeded expectations when she led Auburn to three SEC titles and two NCAA championship games, then went on to win two Olympic gold medals.

But as this SEC STORIED documentary directed by Lisa Lax and Nancy Stern reveals, it was Ruthie Bolton's courage during and after her playing career ended that ultimately defines her. After surviving years of domestic abuse in her first marriage, she has opened up about her experiences and become a powerful advocate for women around the world who live in fear of their spouses. Yes, she was a great basketball player. But it's as a woman willing to share her pain that Mighty Ruthie has truly lived up to her nickname.

"Mighty Ruthie" features interviews from Bolton's friends and family as well as Ruthie herself as she talks about the highs and lows of her life and career thus far, and how she is helping women today.