The 'Annexation Of Puerto Rico': Unpacking Little Giants' Iconic Trick Play
For anyone who grew up in the 90s, or perhaps just loves a good underdog story, the phrase "annexation of Puerto Rico" probably brings to mind something quite specific, and it's not a history lesson. It's that truly remarkable trick play from the 1994 movie, 'Little Giants.' This isn't just any old football maneuver; it's a moment etched into the memories of countless fans, a symbol of creative thinking and, you know, a bit of movie magic.
This play, which, as a matter of fact, Ringer staff writer Rodger Sherman explores in detail, stands out as perhaps the greatest trick play in all of football movie history. It’s a moment that, quite simply, captures the heart of what makes underdog sports films so appealing. Everyone, it seems, loves to see the little guy win, especially when they do it with such flair and cleverness.
So, we're going to explore the ins and outs of this legendary play, how it came to be, the characters who made it famous, and why it continues to resonate with people today. It's a fun journey back to a time when a group of kids, pretty much, showed everyone that heart and smarts can beat sheer size and strength on the football field.
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Table of Contents
- The Story Behind the Play: Little Giants' Heartfelt Journey
- "The Annexation of Puerto Rico": A Play for the Ages
- The Unforgettable Characters Who Made It Shine
- From Silver Screen to Real-Life Gridiron: The Play's Lasting Influence
- Frequently Asked Questions About the "Annexation"
The Story Behind the Play: Little Giants' Heartfelt Journey
The whole setup for the "annexation of Puerto Rico" begins, really, with a classic sibling rivalry. You have Kevin O'Shea, the former football star, coaching the seemingly unstoppable pee-wee team, the Cowboys. Then there's his younger brother, Danny, a bit more down-to-earth, who ends up coaching a team of misfits, the Little Giants. This dynamic, you know, sets the stage for a truly compelling story where talent isn't just about who's biggest or fastest.
A pivotal moment that sparks the Little Giants' formation involves Kevin's niece, Becky, who everyone calls "Icebox." Despite being, arguably, the best player on the field during tryouts, she gets cut from Kevin's team. This happens solely because she's a girl, which, frankly, is a pretty frustrating thing to see. It's a moment that, in a way, highlights the unfairness she faces, making her determination even more inspiring.
After being teased quite a bit by the players who made the "real" team, Becky, with a lot of spunk, convinces her dad, Danny, to coach a brand new pee-wee team. This new squad, the Little Giants, is made up of all the kids who didn't fit in or weren't considered good enough. It's a classic underdog setup, and, apparently, everyone loves that kind of story, where the unlikely heroes come together to prove something important.
"The Annexation of Puerto Rico": A Play for the Ages
The stage for this incredible play is set during the game's final seconds. The Little Giants, against all odds, find themselves tied at 21 points with the formidable Cowboys. There are, you know, only four seconds left on the clock, and they have the football. This is the ultimate high-stakes moment, where everything rides on one last chance, and the tension is, really, palpable.
Head coach Danny O'Shea, with a stroke of genius, calls for a special play. This play, apparently inspired by legendary football commentator John Madden, is Noodle's (Mathew McCurley) very own creation, and he calls it, quite memorably, "the annexation of Puerto Rico." It's a variation of the classic "fumblerooski," but with a unique twist that makes it, essentially, unforgettable. The name itself, too, is a bit of a mystery, adding to its charm.
The play involves a trick where the ball is seemingly fumbled but is actually intentionally left on the ground for another player to pick up and run with. In the movie, it’s executed with such precision and surprise that it completely catches the opposing team off guard. It's an all-time play, honestly, that embodies the spirit of outsmarting your opponent rather than just overpowering them. There's, arguably, no debate or explanation needed for why it works so well; you just have to see it.
The Unforgettable Characters Who Made It Shine
Danny O'Shea, played by the talented Rick Moranis, is the heart and soul of the Little Giants. He's the coach who sees potential in every kid, no matter how clumsy or unconventional they might seem. His belief in his team, you know, is what truly empowers them to achieve something special. It's his willingness to try something different, like the "annexation," that makes him such a beloved figure in the film.
Becky "Icebox" O'Shea is, without a doubt, one of the most memorable characters from the movie. Her initial rejection from the Cowboys fuels her drive, and she becomes a vital part of the Little Giants, showing everyone that girls can play football just as well, if not better, than the boys. She's a trailblazer, really, and her spirit is infectious. She helps to make the team, in a way, truly believe in themselves.
Becky "Icebox" O'Shea: A Look at the Player
Becky, played by actress Shawna Waldron, was just 11 years old when 'Little Giants' hit theaters in 1994. Her portrayal of Icebox captured the hearts of audiences, showcasing a strong, determined young girl who refused to be sidelined. She brought a lot of grit and, you know, a certain charm to the role, making Icebox an icon for many young viewers.
| Character Name | Becky "Icebox" O'Shea |
| Actress | Shawna Waldron |
| Age at Release (1994) | 11 years old |
| Role on Team | Running Back/Linebacker (initially cut, then key player for Little Giants) |
| Key Trait | Determined, strong-willed, athletic, challenges gender norms |
Beyond Danny and Icebox, other players like Noodle (Mathew McCurley), who conceived the "annexation" play, also played their part in the team's success. Every member of the Little Giants, basically, contributed to the magic. They were a collection of individuals who, in some respects, found their strength together, showing that teamwork and a bit of quirkiness can go a very long way.
From Silver Screen to Real-Life Gridiron: The Play's Lasting Influence
The "annexation of Puerto Rico" isn't just a beloved movie moment; it has, honestly, transcended the screen. Ringer staff writer Rodger Sherman, as we mentioned, breaks down this play as the greatest trick play in football movie history, trying, you know, to warn future generations about its brilliance. Its reputation is, apparently, well-deserved, cementing its place in popular culture and sports lore.
Perhaps one of the most surprising real-world instances of its influence came when Washington Football Team coach Ron Rivera, who is half Puerto Rican, actually ran a version of the fumblerooski play, inspired by 'Little Giants,' against the Cowboys in a real game. This moment, you know, really brought the movie's magic to life on a professional field, proving that even Hollywood plays can have a place in the actual sport. It was, arguably, a nod to the film's enduring impact.
The phrase "annexation of Puerto Rico" has even found its way into Urban Dictionary, where, as of February 27, 2023, it's defined as "a glorious football play" popularized by the 1994 film. This just shows how deeply ingrained the play is in collective memory. It's not just a movie reference; it's become, in a way, a part of the informal lexicon of sports fans, which is pretty cool.
The Little Giants unveiled "the annexation of Puerto Rico" on October 14, 1994, which was, you know, 20 years before some of these later discussions about its legacy. It's been over two decades since this play made Danny O'Shea and his band of misfit kids the heroes of Urbania in this much-loved sports film. The fact that people are still talking about it today, and that it still gets referenced, speaks volumes about its lasting appeal.
This play is likely the most famous play with a specific name in football movie history, and its real-life usage only adds to its legendary status. It's a variation of a trick play, yes, but its unique branding makes it stand out. Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers, for instance, were also noted for "stealing" the annexation of Puerto Rico during a game in 2011, showing its widespread recognition and influence. It’s a testament to how a well-crafted movie moment can, you know, truly live on.
However, the legacy of 'Little Giants' isn't just about this one play, as amazing as it is. The film itself, with its themes of perseverance, teamwork, and believing in yourself, has a broader impact. The "annexation of Puerto Rico" is, in some respects, the crowning jewel, but the movie's charm comes from its entire story and its memorable characters. It’s a film that, you know, continues to capture hearts, well beyond just the football field. Learn more about underdog sports stories on our site, and for more movie magic, check out our page on classic 90s family films.
Frequently Asked Questions About the "Annexation"
Q: What exactly is the "annexation of Puerto Rico" play in 'Little Giants'?
A: It's a trick play from the climax of the 1994 movie 'Little Giants.' It's a variation of the "fumblerooski," where the ball is seemingly fumbled but is intentionally left on the ground for another player to pick up and run with, leading to a surprise touchdown. It's called by Coach Danny O'Shea, and it was, you know, Noodle's special idea.
Q: Has the "annexation of Puerto Rico" ever been used in a real football game?
A: Yes, it has! Washington Football Team coach Ron Rivera, who is half Puerto Rican, famously ran a fumblerooski play inspired by the movie against the Cowboys. Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers also, apparently, used a similar play in 2011, which was also linked back to the movie's influence.
Q: Who is Icebox from 'Little Giants' and what was her role?
A: Icebox is Becky O'Shea, played by actress Shawna Waldron. She's Kevin O'Shea's niece and Danny O'Shea's daughter. She's a very talented football player who gets cut from Kevin's team because she's a girl. She then convinces her dad to coach the Little Giants, becoming a pivotal player and, you know, a symbol of determination on the team.
The Annexation of Puerto Rico: Definitive ‘Little Giants’ Trick Play
The Annexation of Puerto Rico
Annexation of Puerto Rico From Little Giants Movie Framed Print - Etsy
