Providence’s Roman Guzman journeyed to Sweden in July to participate in the Gothia Cup, renowned as the largest international youth soccer tournament. The young defender returned enriched with experience and motivation.

It was very different, Guzman remarked. Coming from America and going all the way over there, an 18-hour flight away, the second I got there you could feel a difference. He described the intensity, stating, The technicality, the physical aspect, all of it was just on steroids. It was all amplified. It was incredible.

Guzman’s Swedish experiences translated into performance in his season opener, scoring a goal and providing an assist in Providence’s 7-0 triumph over Joliet Catholic. Jovanny Gonzalez led with two goals and an assist. Billy Savarino, Christian Hofferica, Aldo Dominguez, and Chris Serrano also contributed goals. Aleksander Chavez and Caleb Pintar combined to secure the shutout, with Chavez blocking a penalty kick.

Guzman, along with Luca Bullion, Cameron Klene, James Nagle, and Cooper Wojcik, fortified the defense, limiting Joliet Catholic to a single shot on goal. Mark Vasecka, in goal for the Hilltoppers, made six saves.

This victory marked the 600th career win for Providence coach Mike Taylor. I don’t keep track but Mike Stacy, who does social media for us, was asking me about it over the summer and I started to add it up and I was like, ‘Oh, shoot, I’m one away from 600,’ Taylor recounted. That really surprised me. It’s been a lot of fun and I’m still having fun. The kids keep me young.

The Celtics dominated from the start, leading 4-0 by halftime. Guzman scored his second varsity career goal right before the break by capitalizing on a rebound from a Leo Mendoza shot hitting the post. It’s very fun to score goals, especially with this team, he shared. They’re a great group of guys to be around. It’s always fun to score and celebrate with my brothers.

In Sweden, Guzman played with the LA Bulls of MLS Next. It was a really good experience, he reflected. I was able to lead a group of guys that I had just met. I was able to be team captain. I got an assist over there. It was all great.

Post-trip, Guzman returned more prepared to make a significant impact for the Celtics. Yet, he once considered joining the opposing team. Being from Joliet, he contemplated attending Joliet Catholic but chose Providence due to his long-time friend, Jovanny Gonzalez. I was leaning toward JCA, but I’ve been friends with Jovanny Gonzalez since we were 5 years old, he explained. He’s like a brother to me. He talked to me and got me to go with the Celtics. I’m glad I came here. It’s always fun playing against Joliet Catholic.

Gonzalez is undoubtedly pleased with Guzman’s choice. I’ve played with Roman ever since I started the sport at the park district when I was 5 years old, Gonzalez shared. I was trying to talk some guys into coming here and I thought of Roman right away. He’s really dedicated. When he sticks to a goal, he gets it done. He worked his way to be here and get a spot on varsity. I love him to death. He’s like a little brother to me.

Driven by a renewed sense of purpose, Guzman aims to appear on more prominent soccer stages. His passion ignited in Sweden. It just flicked a switch in me, Guzman said. All I want is to go back. It was such a blessing to be able to play at such a high level.