Investing in the education of young footballers and preparing them for life after football.

Judging by the number of MDC graduates in the Absa Premiership, it has become evident, over the years, just how competitive and how challenging it is for young South African football players to make their living off the game of football. Educational qualifications may just support the young players' long term development in a way that extra training on the pitch simply cannot.

A career in top-flight football is generally short, some MDC graduates are fortunate enough to make it as professional footballers and this affords them the opportunity to earn money and pursue other ventures that will be able to sustain them beyond their playing days. South Africa, however, has a lot of young elite footballers whose "professional careers" are prematurely ended as a result of de-selection since the inception of the MDC. There are various reasons why some of these players are released by their clubs, some do not make the grade, some are de-selected for being over the age limit- the MDC is now an under 21 league, whilst some are released when their senior sides are relegated from the Absa Premiership.

Football players, whether young or old generally have a strong athletic identity. De-selection from an academy or PSL side has a huge impact on their sense of self and adapting to life outside of football can be difficult. What is evident for all to see when players are de-selected is the limited support that is made available to make the transition from football to life, in general, a lot easier for these young footballers.

Although we have seen young players such as Thendo Mukumela, Njabulo Blom, Brylon Peterson, and Percy Tau take the initiative to invest in their education and compete in the big leagues simultaneously, the question must be asked- what are PSL clubs doing about the rest of their MDC players? How are they helping them invest in their education and life beyond football? The MDC being an under 21 league means players are at an age where they should be completing their degrees, diplomas, and NCV certificates at various higher institutions of learning.

Development shouldn't be just about kicking a football. The lack of focus afforded to education within most PSL clubs/academies is there for all to see and filters through to their senior sides. While the game may be rewarding for those who are successful, those who are not so lucky to make the cut are left ill-prepared for life and this leads to an identity crisis and general uncertainty. Consequently, some end up turning to crime, substance abuse, or end up being famous for all the wrong reasons.

Despite all the negatives surrounding academies and PSL clubs' lack of focus on the education of their players. We need to commend the various colleges and other higher institutions of learning for providing their players with some sort of education. We must truly be grateful for initiatives such as the Varsity Cup. Nonetheless, PSL clubs, the league themselves, and Multichoice need to step up their efforts and not only focus on the business side of the game. If they're indeed into the business of developing footballers in this country, then they must also invest in their education.