Marc van Heerden: School sport choices behind decline of white footballers in PSL

Van Heerden, who retired at the end of the 2023/24 season after nearly two decades in professional football, said the issue starts in youth development - particularly in how football is perceived and supported in former Model C and private schools.

"There's definitely talent across all races. But many white players I grew up with gave up too easily," he told Robert Marawa on MSW as quoted by IOL.

"It becomes a mentality thing - even from academy level. You've got to really want it and put in the work."

Now assistant coach at Sekhukhune United, Van Heerden said young players need to ask themselves if they're willing to make the sacrifices to go pro.

"Do I love the game enough to chase it fully? That's the question."

Others have weighed in with similar views. Former Bafana defender Matthew Booth and ex-Pirates midfielder Mike Morton agree that football is often de-prioritised in white, middle-class communities, especially at high school level.

Booth cited poorly run youth leagues and safety concerns as turn-offs for families, while Morton argued that many talented players are lost when they choose rugby, cricket, or academics in early adolescence.

Former SuperSport midfielder Jesse Donn added that white players often shift away from football simply because it isn't supported in their school environments.

With greater support for football at grassroots and school level, all agree more diverse talent could be retained - including white players with real potential.