Themba Zwane has been a once-in-a-generation talent in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). However, in terms of his output, he could have achieved even more were he not the product of a youth development system lacking pathways to the top.
Mamelodi Sundowns (1.04) star Themba Zwane grew up in soccer-mad Tembisa and had several fantastic mentors as he rose up the ranks. In no way can they be criticised for their roles in his development.
The likes of Orlando Pirates (12.79) legend Jerry Sikhosana, who coached him at M-Tigers as a teenager, have been influential in his development.
However, if their mentorship had been supported by more opportunities for Zwane at a young age, he could have gone on to reach his full potential. Nevertheless, he has been a successful player and has always played with a superb attitude.
When Did Themba Zwane Make His PSL Breakthrough
Skilful winger Zwane only got his breakthrough in South Africa’s Premiership in the 2011-12 season at the age of 22.
The late debuts handed out to many Premier Soccer League players remain a concern for South African youth soccer to this day.
In England’s Premier League; Chelsea, Southampton, Bournemouth, Manchester United, Brighton & Hove Albion, Tottenham Hotspur, Leicester City and Brentford have all fielded teams with average ages of 25.4 or lower this season.
In South Africa’s top flight, this has not happened once this season. The lowest average age for a Premiership starting lineup in South Africa this season has been 25.5 (Stellenbosch FC).
There are several soccer academies in South Africa, but those which are funded and structured in a way that is conducive to elite development are rare.
How SAFA’s Problems Have Hampered Soccer Development in South Africa
Had the South African Football Association (SAFA) handled its budgets transparently in recent years, there might have been more opportunities to promote talent development.
The 2010 FIFA World Cup Legacy Trust was established in 2011 as part of FIFA’s $100-million commitment to ensure that South Africans continue to benefit from hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
That trust was intended to be self-sustaining, with the interest being invested. However, an announcement was made in 2021 by SAFA president Danny Jordaan that it would be wound down. Questions about the management of funds have prevailed.
SAFA’s dire financial situation may be connected to a 2024 Sunday World report stating that youth players who left their schools to join the Safa Boys High-Performance Academy were left stranded.
It is quite possible that South Africa has many more talents like Themba Zwane. Perhaps, if they have an attitude as positive as his, they may go on to succeed like he has. However, the likes of Zwane could go even further with better youth structures in its soccer development.
