Exclusive: Namdhari FC's Jaspreet Singh talks winning I-League Golden Glove, ISL dream, fan support & more

The 26-year-old had a breakout campaign in the 2024-25 I-League season.

The 2024-25 I-League season has proved to be a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by drama in the matches as well as off-field incidents. This thrilling season has seen Churchill Brothers SC provisionally crowned as the league champions, although the final outcome yet continues to remains a question mark.

Despite a downturn in form after a positive start to the I-League 2024-25 season, Namdhari had a slump mid-season, which resulted in Namdhari FC finishing 6th with 32 points. However, even amidst the team’s fluctuating results, goalkeeper Jaspreet Singh stood out as one of their key players, who even ended up winning the Golden Glove this season

Namdhari FC’s guardian, Jaspreet Singh, recently sat down for an interview where he shared insights into his inspirations, reflected on his Golden Glove achievement, his move to Namdhari FC and several other topics.

Here are some excerpts from the interview:

Winning the Golden Glove a dream come true

Jaspreet’s outstanding performance between the posts earned him the Golden Glove award for the I-League 2024-25 season, a proof to his incredible skills which saw him get a total of 9 clean sheets in 17 games.

While talking about the award, Singh stated, “This means a lot to me. Personally, it’s like a dream come true. From playing in the fields of my pind to now being called the best goalkeeper in the league—it’s a proud feeling. Professionally, it shows that hard work never goes to waste. It gives me confidence and also tells others that I’m ready for bigger challenges.”

Jaspreet worked on himself and his game

Goalkeepers need to work on several areas, such as their technique or physical attributes even mental skills and tactical understanding.

While speaking about the areas he has worked on Jaspreet stated, “This year, I worked a lot on my positioning and footwork. I also spent extra time improving my passing and making quicker decisions—because now goalkeepers also need to play with their feet. That mental strength helped me the most.”

Jaspreet wants to prove himself in the ISL

Jaspreet shared his long-term goals within the sphere of Indian football. The Namdhari FC keeper played at different clubs like Sreenidi Deccan and Punjab FC before finding a home with the I-League side.

While reflecting on the common dreams of many in his position, he stated, “My next goal is to play in the ISL. I feel ready now. And every player dreams of wearing the India jersey one day. I just want to keep working hard, stay fit, and keep improving. Rest is in Waheguru’s (God’s) hands.”

ALSO READ: I-League 2024-25: Full list of award winners

Jaspreet earned regular game time at Namdhari FC

Training provides the foundation, but matches are the actual testing of their skills for the players. Jaspreet spoke about the importance of regular game time and how it shapes a player’s performance.

He stated, “Yes, 100%. Game time is important. Sitting on the bench doesn’t help anyone. When you play regularly, you learn faster, stay sharp, and gain confidence. At this stage of my career, I need to be on the field as much as possible.”

Jaspreet believes Namdhari FC move changed his career

Having made the transition from Sreenidi Deccan to Namdhari FC recently, Jaspreet sees this change of clubs as a highly crucial development for his professional journey.

He revealed, “Absolutely. That move to Namdhari FC changed my career. Before that, I wasn’t getting chances and felt stuck. But Namdhari showed faith in me. They gave me matches, support, and respect—and I gave my 100% back. I’ll always be thankful for that.”

The fan support is a source of strength

With sincerity and great respect for the fans, Jaspreet addressed them, stating that they are not just spectators, but like his family now.

He stated, “The fans were amazing. From the start, they gave me so much love—even when results didn’t go our way. Their dhol, their cheers—they gave us strength. I just want to say, thank you from my heart. You are not just fans—you’re family now.”

An elite European shot-stopper inspired Jaspreet

In expressing his sources of motivation, the goalkeeper first and foremost thanked his parents for their constant support. He then revealed that Jan Oblak was a major inspiration, and that he admired the Atletico Madrid goal keeper’s qualities.

The Namdhari FC goalkeeper stated, “I consider Jan Oblak as a growing inspiration for me in the field of football actually.. And first and foremost is my parents without them I would be incomplete. So I’m thankful to them”

Jaspreet is optimistic about Indian goalkeeping future

Indian goalkeeping has undergone a great evolution, marked by a change towards professionalised training and increased opportunities. The Indian Super League and the I-League have served as a crucial platform for showcasing and developing domestic goalkeepers.

While talking about that, the Namdhari FC keeper shared, “Indian goalkeeping is getting better with time. We have strong young talent now. Training is better, coaching is better. I want to play my part by setting an example—If I can inspire even one kid from a small village like mine to chase this dream, I’ll be happy.”

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