Karo Haghverdian

In 1963, Haghverdian was spotted by Ararat Tehran FC coach Garnik Mehrabian. Noticing his talent, Mehrabian immediately signed Haghverdian to a contract for the remainder of the season. Haghverdian continued to play for the team for three seasons, until he was spotted by Taj S.C. manager Zdravko Rajkov. Haghverdian spent 6 seasons with Taj S.C., in which he participated in a record 17 Tehran Derbies against rival Persepolis F.C.

Haghverdian started playing football at the age of 13 when he joined amateur side Gohar F.C. Under the guidance of coach Areshavir Yeritsian, Haghverdian developed into a star player for the team. However, his parents—worried about how his passion for football was affecting his schooling—cautioned Haghverdian to stop playing football and to concentrate on his studies instead. Going against his parents' wishes, Haghverdian continued to play. His performances on the pitch helped his team win several local championships.