TSP Player Profile: Chetan Chadha (Bahubali of TSP)

Chetan Chadha, affectionately known as Chetan Bhai, has emerged as the knight in shining armor for TSP Division 2 this season. Initially stepping in as a backup goalkeeper, Chetan Bhai found himself thrust into the spotlight due to unforeseen circumstances. With Harshul moving to play as a Centre Back, Chetan Bhai took up the mantle of goalkeeper and has since become a formidable presence on the field.

At 42+, Chetan Bhai balances his passion for football with a demanding work schedule, which includes extensive travel to Saki Naka—a notorious hub for Mumbai's traffic congestion. This commute often consumes 3 to 3.5 hours of his day, yet he remains committed to both his professional and personal responsibilities. As a dedicated football dad, he ensures his energetic son has ample opportunities to play and excel, while also supporting his academic pursuits.

A regular at Fab LA, the morning football group at Amara, Chetan Bhai is perhaps the only goalkeeper who arrives equipped with gloves and focuses solely on his role, resisting the urge to sprint forward unnecessarily. His presence is not only felt on the field but also in the post-match discussions, where his humor and witty observations, particularly about missed opportunities by strikers, add a unique flavor to the conversations.

You thought of Sarva, I did not mention Sarva here. Its on you readers. Not on me

Despite knowing he would start as a backup keeper for TSP matches, Chetan Bhai embraced the role wholeheartedly. His participation is driven by a desire to be part of the team's journey and to provide younger players with opportunities to shine. This selflessness is echoed by many of the 30+ players who prioritize the development of younger talent, even though their own performances make it challenging for coaches to sideline them.

Chetan Bhai's commitment extends beyond the field, often volunteering to drive his car to matches when the team lacks enough players to justify using the sponsor-provided team bus from City Commute. Although initially overwhelmed by playing on grass after a long hiatus, he quickly adapted, becoming more vocal and assertive, particularly with the defense. His ability to communicate effectively, reminding teammates of their responsibilities and alerting them to potential threats, has been invaluable.

Understanding his physical limitations, Chetan Bhai wisely opts for strategic plays, such as punching long balls out for corners or sidelines, rather than attempting risky catches. His pragmatic approach and leadership have solidified his role as a core member of both the Fab LA group and TSP’s Division 2 team.

Playing alongside Chetan Bhai this season has been a privilege, and his contributions have been instrumental in the team's success. We look forward to many more seasons with him as an integral part of our football journey.

PS: Harshul was right, its so tough to find good clicks of a keeper :)