Providence’s Roman Guzman made a trip to Sweden in July to play in the Gothia Cup, which is billed as the largest and most international youth soccer tournament in the world.
The junior defender returned with a wealth of new knowledge and motivation.
“It was very different,” Guzman said. “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.
“The technicality, the physical aspect, all of it was just on steroids. It was all amplified. It was incredible.”
Guzman put the experience to good use in Monday’s season opener, producing a goal and an assist as the Celtics rolled to a 7-0 nonconference win over host Joliet Catholic.
Jovanny Gonzalez led Providence (1-0) with two goals and an assist. Billy Savarino tallied a goal and an assist, while Christian Hofferica, Aldo Dominguez and Chris Serrano added goals.
Aleksander Chavez and Caleb Pintar combined for the shutout, with Chavez saving a penalty kick. Guzman, Luca Bullion, Cameron Klene, James Nagle and Cooper Wojcik led the defense that held Joliet Catholic (0-1) to one shot on goal. Mark Vasecka made six saves for the Hilltoppers.
It was the 600th career boys soccer 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 said. “That really surprised me. It’s been a lot of fun and I’m still having fun. The kids keep me young.”
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The Celtics started fast Monday, jumping to a 4-0 lead in the first half. Guzman scored the second goal of his varsity career just before halftime, ripping in a rebound after Leo Mendoza fired a shot off the post.
“It’s very fun to score goals, especially with this team,” Guzman said. “They’re a great group of guys to be around. It’s always fun to score and celebrate with my brothers.”
Speaking of fun, Guzman certainly had a blast in Sweden. He was playing with the LA Bulls of MLS Next.
“It was a really good experience,” he said. “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.”
After the trip, Guzman feels more ready to play a big role for the Celtics. But he could have been playing for the other side Monday.
Guzman is a Joliet native who strongly considered attending Joliet Catholic.
“I was leaning toward JCA, but I’ve been friends with Jovanny Gonzalez since we were 5 years old,” Guzman said. “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 definitely happy that Guzman made that decision.
“I’ve played with Roman ever since I started the sport at the park district when I was 5 years old,” Gonzalez said. “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.”
Guzman is now playing with a new level of determination, with the goal to play on more big stages.
It all started in Sweden.
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“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.”