For Midfielder Darwin Ceren, growing up in El Salvador was often challenging and strenuous at times.

However, fortunately for Ceren, soccer has been a key cornerstone in his life since an early age, and those difficult times that he encountered have been essential in the Salvadorian’s approach to the beautiful game.

“Like everything in life, sometimes you have bad things happen and at times it’s been hard, but I feel like the sport of soccer has always been there for me,” said Ceren. “I’ve worked hard from a young age for everything I’ve accomplished this far, and my determination will only continue to get stronger going forward.”

When Ceren joined his former club Juventud Independiente, he was only 19-years-old but even then his mental toughness and determination would propel him and the club to new heights. Appearing in 83 matches for Independiente, Ceren found the back of the net 15 times, despite playing as a defensive midfielder, and was instrumental in the club’s promotion to the El Salvador Premier League.

Having such an impactful role at a young age allowed the midfielder to develop a sense of leadership both on and off the field.

Once Ceren made his debut for the El Salvador National Team, his leadership and talent would impress the team’s technical staff so much that they nominated him as team captain, albeit playing in only 16 matches.

“I think it’s one of the things that motivated me,” Ceren said of being named captain of El Salvador. “I think it speaks to all of my hard work and the way that I prepare. I always give 100%, and I believe that led them to making that decision.”

Nevertheless, despite all of his domestic success, Ceren still had big dreams of playing in a more recognizable league, particularly MLS. In December 2013, the dots would all begin to connect when OCSC Head Coach Adrian Heath was in El Salvador to watch a semifinal match featuring Juventud Independiente.

Heath is notorious for venturing on international scouting trips during his off-season and was in El Salvador with the mission of recruiting players for the upcoming USL PRO season, and possibly the MLS season in 2015.

It’s safe to say that Heath found one.

Despite the fact that several MLS clubs were vying to try and acquire Ceren’s talents, the Lions were able to capture his signature earlier this month to make him the team’s third MLS signing.

“Darwin is at the right age,” said Heath in a statement in early February. “He’s the captain of his country and an all-around great kid, so I’m very pleased that we were able to get this deal finalized.”

The El Salvador native was presented with a proposal he could not deny and added that he is also excited for the opportunities that the future holds for him here in Orlando.

“I believe it was a smart decision to come here,” Ceren continued. “It’s a magnificent club with the possibility of winning it all in the USL this season. A great showing this season will make for a great transition next year to the MLS.”

With Ceren signed through the inaugural MLS season, as well as Yordany Alvarez and Kevin Molino, the Lions’ midfield is destined to be in capable hands for the next few years.

“This is already a championship club and you can tell right away,” Ceren said. “Hopefully I can help us repeat this year and become a champion alongside my new teammates. Winning a championship outside my home country would be a great personal accomplishment for me. Down the road, giving a good showing in MLS is another goal of mine.”