5 Most Inspirational Sports Stars Of All Time

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).