By Hope Eckley, Staff Writer
The Newman men’s soccer team prepares to fill the hole of senior star Edward Jabbari as his graduation approaches.
Cliff Brown, head coach of the men’s soccer team, said that Jabbari is known for the energy he brings to every game, the commitment he has, his hard work, and his smile. The players look up to Jabbari, Brown said.
“I love remembering back to who Edward was as a freshman,” Brown said. “He first came on campus with his family and was young and inexperienced. I have loved coaching and getting to know him, and I cannot wait to see the great things he achieves in his future.”
Jabbari came to Newman from his home country of England to major in business information systems and business management. He chose to come to Newman because it gave him opportunities other colleges were not able to, like being able to play soccer at a high level, Jabbari said.
Although Jabbari said he isn’t certain about what the future holds, he plans to start his career with his major in business information systems and business management. Jabbari also intends on continuing his soccer career in the United States Soccer Federation in the years to come.
It will be hard to say goodbye to a coach that has been a mentor and motivator to the seniors for the past four years, Jabbari said.
“I personally feel like I started to find my place my senior year,” Jabbari said.
Brown said that Jabbari is an important member of the team.
“He gives 100 percent, he goes full speed. He will kill himself for the team. He is a pest and a nuisance on the field. He wins battles against teams that should not be won, and he doesn’t let them off the hook,” Brown said.
Brown said it is hard watching Jabbari leave because it felt so short while he was here.
“[The players] are my family. I hate to see them leave, but I love seeing them move on and be successful,” Brown said.
Jabbari said that time in college is shorter than we think.
“I hope that the underclassmen understand to savor every moment. Although it seems like four years is a long time, you only really get one opportunity. Do not take it for granted as an individual and as an athlete,” Jabbari said.
PHOTO: Courtesy Photo. Newman Athletics.
