Underdog Story: Vince Papale

June 11, 2012, 3:03 pm

Vince Papale the inspiration for the movie “Invisible” joined the Sports Insider to talk about his underdog story getting into the NFL, and what he is up to now.

Brian talked with Vince Papale, known nation-wide because of the Disney movie and his work in the community. Vince talks about how the movie got optioned because of his story being shown on Monday Night Football. After the story aired tons of producers talked to him and the whirlwind continued as he met with the star of the movie Mark Walberg and saw the movie being made.

Brian talks with Vince about how he was found by the Philadelphia Eagles and Dick Vermeil. Vince chats about his time in the World Football League and how by chance he got the opportunity to try out for the Eagles. Vince talks about how he showed his speed and toughness and got a roster spot for three seasons on the Eagles (1976-1978) and became a fan favorite.  He was voted Special Teams Captain by his teammates and "Man of the Year" by the Eagles in 1978 for his many charitable activities. A shoulder injury ended his career in 1979.  Diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2001 and has recovered from the disease, to become a spokesman encouraging people to get regular check-ups.

Vince will be at the Tiger Woods House at the Nike World Headquarters 7-9 pm July 29th, and July 30 at 11am at Pumpkin Ridge. All of the details are at RMHC.com.

You can hear his whole story from the rise of an underdog to being a NFL player below.