![]() ![]() In similar fashion, young coach Vermeil is undergirded by a supportive wife. His father, Frank, does likewise, adding that, “We’ve had some rough times, but we stick on this, you and me.” And best friend Tommy provides a steady spark of encouragement and support, even while he faces his own hardships. ![]() When Vince doesn’t have rent money, bar owner Max helps him out. No matter how many times he’s knocked down-both on the field and off-the underdog musters the strength to get back on his feet.Ī large part of his success is due to strong support from several of those around him. Among other things, Vince’s perseverance, humility and loyalty to his roots are indeed stirring. Invincible fits perfectly in the long lineup of Disney’s inspirational stories that are just as much about lessons of the heart as sheer entertainment. Yet with an entire city full of blue-collarites rooting him on, the unassuming Vince is determined to make something of himself for once. Even his own teammates go out of their way to prove the rookie a fluke-particularly the cocky veterans he’s challenging for spots on the roster. ![]() Besides the relentless physical beating he takes, a horde of naysayers waits for him to fail. Once there, he faces a daily uphill battle. Vince is the only one invited to attend training camp. But his exceptional speed, good hands and unmatched heart turn a few heads at the trials-including new coach Dick Vermeil’s. It’s a Hail Mary for sure: Vince never played college ball and is 30 years old. So when his friends hear about the Eagles holding open tryouts, they urge this rec-league standout to give it a shot. After his wife walks out on him and he’s let go from his teaching job, the South Philly native doesn’t see how things can get much worse. And adding insult to injury, fans of the city’s beloved football team, the Eagles, are enduring an unprecedented 11-year losing streak.Ĭhief among those dejected fans is part-time teacher, part-time bartender Vince Papale. District-wide cutbacks in several industries have forced others out of their jobs entirely. Union strikes have left scores of workers without paychecks. It’s the bicentennial summer of 1976, but there’s little to celebrate for many Philadelphians. ![]()
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