U.S. Soldiers face Swiss Guard in annual Vatican soccer match, attend Papal Audience

VICENZA, Italy - Soldiers from U.S. Army Garrison Italy's Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program traveled to Rome Nov. 17-19, where they competed against the Vatican's Pontifical Swiss Guard in the fifth edition of their annual soccer tournament and attended Pope Leo XIV's general audience at St. Peter's Square.

"As Soldiers, our resilience and commitment are not confined to the battlefield; they are forged in every mission, every duty, every day," said Command Sgt. Maj. Ricardo Moreno, senior enlisted leader for USAG Italy. "Whether we are testing our mettle on the soccer pitch against the Pontifical Swiss Guard or standing in the presence of the Holy Father, these moments remind us that sacrifice and service are expressed through our discipline, our unity, and our unwavering standards."

"Friendship between countries is a beautiful thing: seeing people from different backgrounds come together and share these moments is truly special," added Halberdier Sven Rechsteiner, native of St. Gallen, Switzerland. "It's a friendly match, especially because the Soldiers live very similar lives. Like us, they are always on duty-training, working, fulfilling their responsibilities. That's why occasions like this matter: they give us the chance to clear our minds, spend time together and enjoy ourselves."

The BOSS team, composed of service members from Vicenza and Camp Darby, secured victories in both matches played Nov. 18 at the San Giuseppe five-a-side soccer field inside Vatican City. The U.S. side edged the first game 5-4 and won the second 10-6. A rematch is scheduled for summer 2026 in Vicenza.

At the invitation of the Swiss Guard, the Soldiers joined thousands of pilgrims from around the world Nov. 19 for Jubilee 2025 celebrations. During the papal audience, the delegation was officially recognized in the Holy Father's announcement, a moment many described as unforgettable. In addition to the games, the Soldiers shared a lunch and a dinner with their hosts and toured the Swiss Guard headquarters, further strengthening bonds of friendship and cultural exchange.

Moreno said escorting the team from Vicenza and Darby to Rome was "an immense privilege."

"I witnessed firsthand the strength, professionalism, and camaraderie that define our Army," he said. "Events like these also reflect our enduring commitment to the U.S. Army in building trust, readiness, and shared purpose with our allies and partners. Every interaction, on or off the field, reinforces the relationships that enhance our collective security and ensure we remain stronger together."

Chaplain's perspective

Chaplain Lt. Col. John B. Gabriel, SETAF-AF operations and engagement chaplain, said the visit carried personal significance.

"For me, being here is very special. I was born and raised Catholic in India, and I joined the U.S. Army in 2006 at Fort Hood," Gabriel said.

He emphasized the importance of military relationships built through shared experiences. "By bringing two groups of soldiers together for a friendly game, we strengthen bonds and build true camaraderie," he said. "As Soldiers, we also serve our nations with the willingness to sacrifice our lives for our countries. In many ways, our commitment mirrors what the martyrs did here. Saints Peter and Paul died for their faith and to defend God's kingdom."

Gabriel said connecting the sacrifices of faith with those of service members deepened the meaning of the event. "This is a historic and ancient place, and it is truly a privilege for us to be here-especially within such a small country where few have the opportunity to visit," he said. "For our team to come all this way for this event, and then to be recognized during the papal audience, is something very special and truly exceptional."

Soldiers reflect on the experience

Capt. Kallie Holte of the U.S. Army Health Clinic in Vicenza, born and raised Catholic in Missouri, called the tournament "a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

"It's an honor to play against the Swiss Guard at the Vatican," Holte said. "It's incredible to play the sport I love here in Italy and on an international stage."

Sgt. Raul Vargas, coach of the team and a member of the 1/503rd, 173rd Airborne Brigade, grew up Catholic in Mexico City before joining the Army six years ago.

"Being here at the Vatican and having the opportunity to play against the Swiss Guards is always an honor," Vargas said. "Being invited as a guest is something truly special and unique."

He said more than 30 Soldiers tried out for the team this year. "Watching them develop, seeing them achieve something after 10 practices spread over two months, and being able to give back to the community-this is what makes the experience so unique. It's more than just soccer," Vargas said.

Sgt. Mery Lozada of the 522nd Military Intelligence Battalion, born in Brooklyn, New York, said returning to Rome during Jubilee Year was especially meaningful.

"Being here for the Jubilee was truly special-especially walking through the Holy Door," Lozada said. "And being present at the papal audience, hearing the Holy Father acknowledge our team, was something I will never forget."

Cpl. Annya Day, BOSS vice president, is from Houston, Texas, and has played soccer for 20 years. She said she was honored to support the team and play. "This is one of our favorite annual events," Day said.

Air Force Staff Sgt. Christopher Rossi of the 731st Munitions Squadron at Camp Darby was born in Virginia near Washington, D.C. His father emigrated from Calabria, Italy, to New York City at age two.

"I love joining the team from Vicenza, and playing here at the Vatican is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that BOSS made possible," Rossi said. "The papal audience was incredible, and the Swiss Guards' hospitality made the experience even more meaningful."

Swiss Guard voices

Cpl. Antonio Maria of Berna, the team's coach, said, "It's a friendship that has lasted for many years, and one we are determined to maintain. We hope to win back the tournament soon."

Swiss Guard Sgt. Maj. Guillaume Favre said he was thankful for the tradition. "I am grateful that we continue this tradition every year, and I hope we can meet again next year," Favre said. "I know we still have some work to do if we want to beat you next time!"

He thanked the Soldiers for their presence and friendship. "I wish you a wonderful stay here in Rome and tomorrow at the Vatican," Favre said. "The general audience is something very special, and seeing the Pope is an incredible experience. We must also remember that we are often far from our own countries, so we will keep you in our prayers and wish you all the best."

Looking ahead

The BOSS program, designed to enhance quality of life for single Soldiers, continues to use events like the Vatican soccer match and papal audience to build morale, strengthen partnerships, and foster community. With a rematch scheduled for summer 2026 in Vicenza, both teams look forward to continuing a tradition that blends sport, service, and shared sacrifice.