Jeevan Badwal: Surrey Teen Emerges as MLS Breakout Star
Surrey’s own Jeevan Badwal is quietly crafting a stellar rookie season with the Vancouver Whitecaps, earning 17 appearances so far across competitions. The 19-year-old midfielder brings relentless hustle and surprising maturity to the pitch, becoming a vital contributor to a squad that’s riding high in the MLS Western Conference.
His father, Kam, first introduced him to the game. Though Kam now shares advice from his own men’s league matches, Badwal jokes, “Thanks, but let’s leave it to the professionals.” That sense of humor reflects his grounded nature, even as his game rises.
Earning Respect—From Coaches and Teammates
Coach Jesper Sorensen praises the teen’s effort in training, noting that Badwal works hard to earn his teammates’ trust. “He’s young, but he’s stepping up,” Sorensen said. The Whitecaps boss believes it’s just the beginning for the midfielder.
Badwal feels his coach is helping him evolve fast. “He’s taught me to turn quickly and move forward,” he shared, adding that every match sharpens his skills further.
From Schoolyard to Stadium Lights
Growing up, Badwal played every sport—from basketball to hockey—though soccer stuck. His mother, Gurinder, preferred him on the court or rink, but the pull of the pitch proved stronger. He recalls watching his first Whitecaps game at age seven, even with a broken arm, and vividly remembers Erik Hurtado’s iconic hair.
He’s a product of the club’s academy, having attended University Hill Secondary near the Whitecaps’ training facility. Jeff Hodgson, his former teacher and academy coordinator, remembers him fondly. “He’d be class president anywhere else. Just a bright, kind, curious young man,” Hodgson said.
Life Off the Pitch
Off the field, Badwal’s maturity shines. He shares an apartment with teammate Emmanuel Sabbi, who jokingly says he wasn’t nearly as responsible at 19. “Jeevan’s calm, clean, and loving to be around,” Sabbi said.
Despite pre-match jitters at BC Place, Badwal says once the whistle blows, the nerves disappear. “I just play,” he says, “the same as it ever was.”
With his strong start, work ethic, and humility, it’s easy to see why many believe Jeevan Badwal is just getting started. A Surrey star may very well be rising.
Stay tuned to Surrey Speak for more on local legends, rising stars, and stories that connect our community to the world.
