By Michael D. Pitman

For CincySemiPro.com 

CINCINNATI — Many people only need a second chance to prove themselves. Some people, though, just want that first chance.

   For football players with collegiate or professional gridiron aspirations, there are a handful of semi-professional teams that can give those young — and not so young — players that chance.

   “We want to give the student-athletes of the Cincinnati area a second chance to use their football talents to get into college, or to the next level of professional football.,” said Mike Kirchgessner, owner and president of the Ohio/Kentucky Xtreme.

   Kings Comets head coach Brian Wells said spectators may be surprised who they see play.

   “It's a chance to see some guys you haven't seen play in a while,” said Wells referring to the former players at Colerain, Elder or Anderson on one of the several Cincinnati area semi-professional teams.

   This platform has given Tri-State Sharks Vice President Stephen Cameron a chance to prove himself. The 2002 Anderson High School graduate was hurt while at the Ohio State University, But because of his three years with the Sharks he said he earned an invite to try out for an NFL team. It's also a chance to fulfill a dream since he was 10 years old.

   “This is another way to get back into shape and really refocus your energies back to playing,” said Cameron, an offensive and defensive tackle. “In the short amount of time I've been playing, I've gotten more contacts to be able to get to that next level.”

   Players are not paid at this level of football, and in fact they must pay to play.

   “We're all still playing because we've got the fire to wanna play — to play and give a good show to people. It's not about money,” Cameron said. “I literally do this because I love the game.”

   Wells said fans can possibly see the next great college standout. In 2007, University of Cincinnati wide receiver Mardy Gilyard played for the Comets. The Bearcat standout is returning for his senior season.

   “It's another chance to get more film to send to a college or arena team,” Wells said. “And you can work on the things you need to work on.”

   Kentucky Stallions owner Homer Reeves started out playing the game, then “I just got old and tired.” He still enjoyed the game and graduated to coaching, and then ownership.

   “I like the thought of helping kids, or middle-aged people, keep active and involved,” Reeves said.

   And Reeves also likes the idea of helping a young player take that next step “to get them to bigger and better things.”

   While many players are fighting to make a name for themselves, it's frustrating to see talented players that have made it to the NFL “throw their talent away,” Cameron said.

   “You got a big chance, why are you acting crazy,” he said.