'Could've been' rugby stars given Second Chance on new reality TV show

From left: Tai Tupou, James Cockburn, Daniel Kauika, Otenili "Nili" Moala and David Egelstaff will compete for another crack at top-tier rugby. Photo / Supplied

Ever wondered what happens to the sports stars who don't quite make the big time? A new reality TV show will give them a fresh bite at stardom.

Three's 2nd Chance Charlie starts this week after whittling down applications for 100 nearly-men. Five made the cut and this week we will meet Otenili "Nili" Moala, Daniel Kauika, David Egelstaff, James Cockburn and Tai Tupou, who will compete for another crack at top-tier rugby.

They are taken through rigorous training and the winner lands a 12-week coaching and training programme with a Super Rugby team plus $10,000 prize money.

Tupou, at 32, is the oldest Charlie and has reached top levels of both rugby and league but an ankle injury put his dreams of playing in the NRL on hold indefinitely and 22-year-old Kauika is the youngest of the finalists and was once selected for the U-18 Hurricanes development squad. He is stoked to get a second chance after he put his rugby career on hold when he joined the navy.

All five are compelling characters and have become firm friends during filming - despite the rivalry. Similar shows for football in the UK and American Football in the US have proved hugely popular.