"Our biggest success isn’t measured in wins or losses but in knowing we’ve raised a child who’s as exceptional off the field as he is on it."-Kamaljit Badwal
Gurinder and Kamaljit Badwal
Parents of Jeevan Singh Badwal
Kamaljit Singh Badwal and Gurinder Kaur Badwal, proud parents of three athletic children, have dedicated themselves to nurturing their kids’ passion while also balancing the complexities of life and family. Based in Surrey, British Columbia, the Badwals’ love for soccer is deep-rooted. A soccer player himself, Kamaljit immigrated from India when he was just 16, bringing with him an immense appreciation for the sport and a culture that values teamwork and resilience. Growing up in Prince George, Gurinder was always a fan of the outdoorsy life and wanted her kids to stay active in any sport they chose.
Hence, they began Jeevan Singh Badwal’s journey early. At just three months old, Gurinder introduced her eldest to swimming, followed by Sportball at 18 months old, and soccer by age four—which is why Jeevan today plays for the Vancouver Whitecaps FC and was named the Whitecaps U16 Player of the Year in 2022. “One of his soccer coaches called us, saying he wanted Jeevan on his team,” Gurinder recalls. While their aim as parents was simply to keep the kid active and explore his potential across various sports, Jeevan’s innate talent and passion for soccer shined through.
The Badwals’ approach to parenting a sportsperson has been one of setting clear expectations from the start while also fostering a sense of independence and responsibility. Kamaljit emphasized the importance of early preparation, reasonable expectations, and candid conversations: “Early on, we took Jeevan to multiple soccer matches in Europe and Canada to let him feel what it takes and how life can be for him in the future.” Gurinder makes sure the family thrives on open dialogue, whether discussing sports, studies, or life, “We never hide our challenges from the kids and maintain a clear, open channel of communication at all times.”
In a world where social media amplifies both praise and criticism, both Kamaljit and Gurinder focus on setting firm boundaries and positivity. “As a mom, I get riled up seeing the negativity on social media, but Kamaljit is often the calming influence in our lives. It helps to have a partner I can fall back on and take on anything as a unit.”
With three kids, all interested in varied sports, there’s a lot to do for Kamaljit and Gurinder. “I had driven 43,000 km on my new car within a year, driving each of the three kids to different training centers and tournaments, and I wouldn't have it any other way,” chuckles Kamaljit. They credit their extended family and a close-knit community for their unwavering support and assistance. “Being a South Asian, I always had our family and friends around to take care of the kids, and that has been a huge blessing,” says Gurinder.
A strong faith in God, taking on each challenge together as one, and having an open communication line both ways is what the Badwals believe helps Jeevan and his siblings shine in the world of sports. “We don’t just want to raise a successful sportsperson, but a great individual with a strong sense of compassion for the people around him.” And Jeevan Singh Badwal’s career and personality proves that time and again.
Q&A
1. How do you ensure that your child’s mental health is prioritized, especially in the high-pressure world of sports?
We reassure Jeevan that we’re always there for him and reflect that in our actions every time. He hates driving to a game, so we make it a point to drop him, irrespective of our schedules. We listen to him talk about his performance, not necessarily giving him feedback on each move, but just hearing him out and make him feel heard at all times.
2. What has been your biggest success as a parent in this journey?
Hearing Jeevan’s coach say he’s one of the best kids he trained—not just as a soccer player but as a person—was a proud moment. It affirmed that we’re raising him right.
3. What advice would you give other parents raising young athletes?
Be their best friend and biggest supporter. Provide opportunities, trust them to make their own mistakes, and celebrate their journey without overloading them with expectations.
4.What’s a message you’d like to share with young athletes pursuing their dreams?
Believe in God and believe in yourself. With the support of your family and those around you, there’s no limit to what you can achieve. You will be the best at whatever you apply your heart to.
