On this episode of “The Newman Bond” podcast, standout soccer player Alberto Romano shares his experience as a student at Newman University.
Overview of conversation topics
Read on to skim or find timestamps of specific topics Romano and Digital Community Specialist Jack Schafer covered in this episode.
(00:00) — From Cancún to Kansas
- Schafer introduces Romano, who hails from Cancun, Mexico. They discuss his initial culture shock when arriving in Kansas, playing soccer and adjusting to life at Newman.
(01:10) — Culture shock & community
- Romano reflects on his transition from Texas to Kansas, dealing with unpredictable weather and how he got involved in student life to feel at home.
(01:43) — Why Newman? A coach’s influence
- He shares how Coach Victor Domingues played a key role in his college decision, along with Newman’s welcoming community and strong athletics.
(02:50) — Senior day glory
- Romano recalls an unforgettable senior day moment: scoring a bicycle kick goal with his family in the stands.
(03:53) — Record breaker
- He discusses breaking multiple school records in one season, including most goals, points and shots on goal.
(04:22) — Teamwork makes the dream work
- Romano credits his success to the support of his coaches and teammates — and shares the joy of having his family there for his milestone moments.
(06:30) — The journey starts early
- Starting soccer at age four, he talks about growing up with the game, learning English and adapting to life in the U.S.
(08:36) — Growing through the phases
- Romano reflects on his evolving identity and how his style, mindset and friendships changed from high school through college.
(09:10) — Academic shout out & future plans
- A nod to his academic advisor Angie McCoy, director of the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at Newman University, and a look ahead to pursuing his MBA and a graduate assistant role.
(10:47) — A taste of home
- He talks about what he misses most from Mexico — especially the food — and his favorite homemade breakfast dish.
(11:50) — Beyond the field
- Romano shares his favorite Newman memories outside soccer, including Trivia Night and the Color Run.
(12:49–16:31) — Penalty kicks & personality picks
- The episode wraps up with a lighthearted penalty kick challenge and a rapid-fire Q&A covering soccer idols, goal celebrations and whether he’s a morning or night person.
View/listen to more episodes of ‘The Newman Bond’ podcast
Newman University releases new podcast episodes every first and third Tuesday of the month at noon on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
