McCarthy backs Varsity Football’s talent development

Former Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs defender Fabian McCarthy has thrown his weight behind Varsity Football’s efforts to develop young talent in South Africa.

McCarthy, who earned 47 caps for the national team, believes that football development is crucial to improving the standards of South African football.

“I was only 20 when I made my national team debut,” McCarthy recalled.

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“Back then, we had programmes sponsored by banks and companies, which helped produce players like Quinton Fortune and Delron Buckley, who went on to succeed in Europe,” said McCarthy.

To revive South African football, McCarthy advocates for a return to grassroots development.

“We need to start with the basics – U12, U15, U17, and U19 tournaments. This will provide a solid foundation for our youth to grow and develop their skills.”

McCarthy praised Varsity Football’s initiatives, citing their positive impact on young players.

“Varsity Football is giving us hope. Their programmes are producing talented players who are making it into the Motsepe Foundation Championship, PSL teams, and even the Diski teams.”

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The former defender, now a CAF A license coach, urged the South African Football Association (SAFA) to support Varsity Football’s efforts.

“SAFA should take the lead in promoting this development pathway,” McCarthy stressed.

“By working together, we can revive South African football and produce world-class players once again.”

With Bafana Bafana’s recent performances sparking optimism, McCarthy believes that Varsity Football’s contributions will be vital to the team’s success.

“The last game in Bloemfontein was sold out, and the team played good football,” he noted. “Varsity Football is helping to rekindle our passion for the beautiful game,” he concluded.