5 Most Inspirational Sports Stars Of All Time

By iD / June 30, 2016

In a world of ever increasing connectivity our phones have become more than just something we use to make and receive phone calls and texts. Whether we’re communicating on social media, streaming our favourite music and videos, or keeping abreast of the latest news and gossip, they have become integral to how we interact with the world and help to form, express and share our individuality.

Over recent times however the different networks available to us don’t seem to reflect that sense of flexibility and identity in the contracts they offer. In what can seem like a one size fits all approach, users are faced with inflexible usage restrictions on data, and additional charges for higher speeds and roaming which can generate a sense of being controlled and dictated to in a world where we’re all trying to break free. Focussed on bursting out of these confines and with handing control back to the user, new network iD Mobile have now burst on to the scene to provide a more bespoke service which looks to work for you.

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In the spirit of taking control of your own destiny iD are presenting a 3 part series titled ‘New Originals’ looking at people who have grabbed the initiative and looked to determine their own destiny. In the video above we are introduced to Rajan Rai and Jai Birch; Brothers In Arms for Newham in East London who have rallied up against the pressures of low expectation and meek ambition, which so often resonates in deprived suburban areas.

Driven by a will to succeed and pride in themselves as well as in the community they belong, Rajan and Jai have risen up through the ranks to become prominent figures in the world of British fencing, and are hoping to represent their country at the 2020 Olympics. Breaking stereotypes and wanting to figure as role models to those around them, they champion the attributes of a sport which is often seen as one only played by white middle class men. Requiring the ability to observe your opponent, showing concentration and focus, and using good judgement in deciding when you make your move, the sport also demands respect and honour between competitors.

Check out Rajan and Jai’s video above, and click here to see the full series.

Displaying strength of will, and the resolve to hold true to our beliefs and forge our path without bowing to peer pressures should never be undervalued, least of which in the sporting world. To carry on this sentiment we have taken a look at 5 of the most inspirational sports stars ever..

5. Vince Papale

Vince Papale is a great example of why you should never give up on your dreams.

Papale grew up in Philadelphia, and had long harboured hopes of playing for the Eagles. Although he went to college with a track scholarship, they didn't have a football team. He played semi-pro upon leaving, signing for the Philadelphia Bells, which led to an invitation to tryout for the Eagles.

He joined the team in 1976, and played for them as a wide receiver for three years. He was 30-years-old when he signed for the Eagles, making him the oldest rookie in NFL history to play without college football experience, and he was named their Man of the Year for his various charitable activities.

In 2001, Palpale was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. However, he's since overcome the disease, and become a spokesperson for encouraging people to be tested.

Palpale was the subject of the 2006 film Invincible, starring Mark Wahlberg (as seen in the image above).