April 30, 2004

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina men’s soccer freshman goalkeeper Brad Guzan has been named the recipient of the team’s John M. Johnson award as the most valuable player for 2003-04, head coach Mark Berson announced on Friday.

The John M. Johnson Award winner is selected by a vote of the players and coaching staff and signifies the men’s soccer program’s most prestigious recognition.

“Brad Guzan is a winner both on and off the field,” said Berson. “He exemplifies the type of determination, drive and will to succeed that you want to see in every student-athlete. As a freshman, he started and played every minute of every match for us and led by example throughout the season. Without question, he is one of the very best young goalkeepers in the nation. His recognition is justly deserved.”

Guzan, a native of Lockport, Ill., is the first freshman to win the award in its 22-year history, as he turned in an outstanding rookie campaign. He earned All-South Region accolades and was named to College Soccer News’ All-Freshman team in 2003 after posting a goals against average of 0.96, while starting all 18 games for the Gamecocks. Guzan finished the year with nine victories, eight of which came by way of shutout, the sixth-most shutouts in a season by a South Carolina goalkeeper in school history.

On the year, Guzan recorded 69 saves between the pipes, for a .793 save percentage, and finished the year with an overall record of 9-7-2.

“It is a great honor to be recognized with this award,” said Guzan. “I want to thank my teammates and the coaching staff.”

Brad Guzan's STATISTICSYear    GP/GS   MIN SV  GA  GAA SHO2003    18/18   1680    69  18  0.96    8.0