For many young rugby players across South Africa, pulling on a green and gold jersey feels like a distant dream- especially when navigating the demanding grassroots club circuit without a professional contract.

But for Forward Foundation captain Roland van der Heever, a non-linear path paved with patience, adaptation, and unyielding self-belief recently culminated in a major career milestone: a call-up to train with the Springbok Sevens "A" (Academy) squad and represent South Africa at the Africa Men's Sevens Series in Mauritius.

Stepping directly into the high-octane Springbok environment alongside full Blitzbok professionals provided an eye-opening look at the standard required at the peak of the sport.

"The biggest adjustment was the intensity," van der Heever told Eyewitness News.

"Everything was done at a high standard, from training to preparation. It showed me that talent alone isn't enough; discipline and consistency make the difference."

Forward Foundation captain Roland van der Heever earns Springbok Sevens Academy call-up. Picture: Supplied.

Running onto the field during the Africa Men's Sevens delivered both immense personal pride and vital competitive lessons.

"It was a proud moment for me and a family, knowing how much hard work had gone into earning that opportunity," he recalled. "My biggest lesson was that small mistakes can cost you at the level, so you need to stay focused, disciplined and composed under pressure."

Van der Heever's rise was forged through years of playing across diverse club environments, including Tygerberg, CPUT, Maties, SK Walmers and the Forward Foundation.

Navigating these setups without an immediate professional contract built a deep resilience that shaped his character both on and off the field.

"Playing for different clubs taught me to adapt, work hard and prove myself in every environment," he explained. "Not having a professional contract motivated me to keep improving, stay disciplined and trust the process while working towards my dream."

That quiet dedication caught the attention of Zhaun Booysen, the head coach and head of rugby at the Forward Foundation, who has mentored van der Heever for five years.

Forward Foundation captain Roland van der Heever (in blue) earns Springbok Sevens Academy call-up. Picture: Supplied.

"Roland has developed into a player who understands that leadership is about more than what happens on the field," Booyen noted. "He is disciplined, respectful, and willing to take responsibility. He leads by example, and that is why he has earned the respect of the players around him."

Since taking over the captaincy of the Forward Legends in 2023, van der Heever's approach to leadership has matured significantly.

"When I first became captain, I focused on leading by example on the field. Today, I understand that leadership is also about communication, accountability and supporting my teammates," van der Heever reflected.

The professional standards he absorbed with the Blitzboks have fundamentally transformed his daily. "I've learned to take preparation, recovery and nutrition more seriously," he shared.

"I've also realised the importance of consistency to detail, and giving 100% every day, even when nobody is watching."

As he prepares for the upcoming Forward Faster Sevens in Stellenbosch (24-25 October), van der Heever views his Academy call-up as a final destination but as the foundation for what comes next.

"My goal is to keep improving my skills and decision-making while maintaining high standards on and off the field," he emphasised.

"I want to use the Academy experience to prove that I can compete consistently at the professional level and earn a permanent spot in the Blitzboks setup."

His core message to younger players navigating the grassroots system serves as a powerful reminder for anyone striving toward their goals: "Stay patient, keep working hard, and never let being overlooked define your potential. Stay disciplined, believe in yourself, and trust that you will reap the rewards when the time is right."

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