Just as many professional athletes struggle to carve out a second career after they retire, amateur sports players are also confronting some really hard times.
With dwindling corporate support, amateurs nowadays must earn a living just like anybody else. This is especially true if they aren't playing popular sports, such as baseball, soccer and rugby -- forcing the cash-strapped to give up the dream of pursuing a sporting career.
Now, though, some companies are offering a helping hand.