TSP Player Profile: Jawad Naseem (our SharmaJi ka Beta)

Jawad's story is one that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever dared to dream beyond the ordinary. Emerging from a family deeply rooted in the football culture of Delhi, with their legacy tied to MoonLight FC (for decades), now Sudeva FC, Jawad's journey is nothing short of inspiring. His pedigree is evident in every move he makes on the field, yet he stands out not just for his skill, but for his unique demeanor.

Unlike the stereotypical image of a Delhi boy, Jawad exudes a calmness that belies the fierce competitor within. As a midfielder, he defied expectations by scoring the most goals for TSP in our debut season, earning numerous Player of the Match awards, and being entrusted with leading the Division 1 team this season. His leadership was palpable, especially during a memorable comeback from a 2-0 deficit to a 3-2 victory, a testament to his ability to inspire and elevate those around him.

Even though he knew his stint will be short this season because of his work commitments, we could still see him giving his usual 100% during the training sessions

Jawad's controlled aggression and positive energy are infectious. His teammates, like Nirbhay, Damian, and others rose to the occasion, driven by Jawad's unwavering commitment. His influence extends beyond the pitch; he is a role model for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that excellence in sports and academics is not mutually exclusive. A graduate of SRCC and an MBA from IIMK, Jawad balances a successful career in sales for an MNC with his passion for football, recently taking his talents to Sweden.

Jawad is what any parent would want their son to be. Yes a typical “SharmaJi ka beta” , good at everything he does. I wish our young players look up to him and be like him. No matter how passionately we feel about football, but at least in India, and at least right now, the numbers (and probability) do not favor taking sports as a full time career option. Very few will make it big. Hence its very very important to be good at career , your studies, your work too. How does Jawad do it ? I dont know the real answer, but I feel he has ability to be super focused on one thing at one time. When he is playing, he is absolutely into that game, as if his life depends on it. As soon as the flood lights go off (ya, we get to play in flood lights at Amara) he is out of the game mode, as if he wasnt even in the game. I presume he might be same at his work , his studies when he was in college.

His humility, perhaps inherited from his family, is as striking as his achievements. Meeting his father, one could see the pride and humility that define Jawad's character. We all were fortunate to meet his Dad, when Uncle came to Lodha Amara to stay with his son for few days, and came to watch our matches. It was almost impossible to miss the pride in his eyes to see his son do so well. And Uncle appreciated us all to be his good friends.

Though his time at Amara was brief, his impact was profound, leaving a legacy that inspires young players to strive for greatness in all aspects of life.

Jawad is in Sweden now, and we do miss his “are bhaiiiiiiiiiiii” on the pitch. But we know his career was bound to take him places. Its Sweden today, and might be something else later. We wish him best for his future and hope to bump into him someday

One of the regrets would be  that he came and left before playing any of the LAFT tournaments. 

Jawad's journey reminds us that limitations are often self-imposed. His ability to focus intensely on his goals, whether on the field or in his career, sets him apart. As he continues to excel in Sweden, we hold onto the hope of crossing paths with him again, knowing that wherever he goes, he will leave a trail of inspiration and excellence.

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