Guram Kashia: The Unwavering Georgian Footballer
A Captain's Leadership on and off the Pitch
Guram Kashia is a Georgian professional footballer who has made a name for himself as a skilled centreback, captaining both his club teams and the Georgia national team. With a career spanning over a decade, Kashia has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the sport, earning him recognition and accolades along the way.
Early Years and Club Career
Born on July 4, 1987, in Georgia, Kashia began his football journey at Dinamo Tbilisi, where he developed his skills and eventually caught the attention of Dutch Eredivisie club Vitesse. In 2010, he made the move to the Netherlands, where he would spend the next eight years of his career. At Vitesse, Kashia quickly became a regular member of the starting lineup and was elected as the captain of the club just two seasons after joining.
Achievements and Accolades
During his time at Vitesse, Kashia amassed an impressive 292 official matches, scoring 24 goals and leading the team to the domestic KNVB Cup title in 2017. His outstanding performances earned him the Best Player of August award in the Eredivisie in 2015.
A Stand for Equality
In a bold move, Kashia wore a rainbow-striped captain's armband in 2017 to show support for LGBT rights, sparking a backlash in his home country. Despite the criticism, Kashia's actions demonstrated his commitment to promoting equality and inclusivity in sports.
New Horizons
In 2018, Kashia joined Major League Soccer side San Jose Earthquakes, where he played for two seasons before being released in 2020. Following his stint in the US, Kashia returned to Georgia to play for Locomotive Tbilisi before signing with Slovakian club Slovan Bratislava in 2021.
International Career
As captain of the Georgia national team, Kashia has made over 80 appearances, leading his country in various international competitions.
Personal Milestones
Kashia has been close friends with fellow Georgian footballer Vako Qazaishvili, with whom he played together at San Jose Earthquakes. Despite the challenges he has faced, Kashia remains a dedicated and passionate footballer, inspiring fans and fellow players alike.
Legacy and Impact
Guram Kashia's career serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the sport, his commitment to promoting equality, and his ability to inspire others through his actions both on and off the pitch. As he continues to play and lead, Kashia's legacy will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the world of football.
FAQ
What is Guram Kashias position on the football field?
Guram Kashia is a central defender, playing primarily as a center-back for his club and country. He is known for his strong aerial ability and leadership skills.
What clubs has Guram Kashia played for?
Guram Kashia has played for Vitesse Arnhem, Ajax, and San Jose Earthquakes, among other clubs. He has also had loan spells with clubs like FC Zwolle and Lokomotiv Moscow.
Has Guram Kashia won any championships?
Yes, Guram Kashia won the Dutch Eredivisie title with Ajax in the 2011-2012 season and the Georgian Premier League title with Dinamo Tbilisi in 2015-2016.
What is Guram Kashias international career like?
Guram Kashia has over 50 caps for Georgia, making his debut in 2009. He has also scored three goals for the national team.
Is Guram Kashia still active in football?
Guram Kashia is still active in football, although he has not played at the highest level in recent years. He currently plays for a lower-division club in Georgia.
