Carli has been a student of Universal Soccer Academy for 9 years. Universal Soccer Academy has been able to provide this sensational talent with many tools that has helped her reach her current goals. Carli’s success is a result of her hard work when in training with her team and when in training at the Academy.
In 2002 Universal built a program specific for Carli with a mission to transform her game to the “World Class Level”. Starting with the mind Carli soon learned what mental traits are essential to be a champion and applied them to her daily life. Physically we built a program that was designed to build an outstanding base of endurance loaded with explosiveness. Loaded with long runs, boxing, hill work, bike riding and other cross country activities, Carli was able to reach the next level physically. Technically, we loaded Carli up with a new arsenal of ball handling skills thus elevating her entire game. Tactically, Carli spent hundreds of hours analyzing videos of her own performances and the performances of other leading soccer players from around the world. Today Carli remains our student. Carli continues to train at the Academy, focusing on the next phase of her development-Preparation for the new WPS league, the World Cup 2011 and the 2012 Olympics. To personally watch Carli train at the Academy please check the Upcoming Schedule located on www.universalsocceracademy.com home page.
Carli you are considered the number one student of Universal Soccer Academy? How does that make you feel?
I feel honored and blessed because I have such an amazing academy to train at. I want to be a role model for all the other students there and Universal Soccer Academy will always be home to me forever.
You started training at Universal Soccer Academy in 2003. Did you ever imagine you would go on to become a full time Professional Soccer Player?
To be honest, I didn’t fully believe in myself until a year before the Olympics. When I first started training in 2003, I realized that I had a lot of work to do. I wasn’t thinking the right way, I wasn’t physically fit and I didn’t know what it took to be a professional athlete day in and day out. Universal Soccer Academy knew I had the potential and believed in me, but then after training there year after year and seeing results it was easier for me to finally believe in myself.
You have a specific program designed for you. Please explain a little about your program. Are there phases you are going through? Is it hard? How often do you train?
My program consists of 3 phases. The 1st phase was geared toward building a solid fitness base. I visited the track often where I had to do 800s and 400s. I went on a lot of long runs, started doing push ups and sit ups. I worked with the ball a lot during this phase. Universal fine tuned all my skills and technique. I was also taught the importance of hydration, stretching and mental focus. I took it one step at a time, one training at a time. Universal Soccer Academy had an excellent plan right off the bat to indirectly get into my head and help me become mentally stronger without me knowing it. I put in a lot of hours in this phase, as I usually trained or did something everyday.
Phase 2 has been real hard. I have realized that it is so important for me to be even fitter therefore I have had to take my fitness to another level. After the WPS season, I came back to Universal and trained twice a day for 7 weeks to prepare for the WNT camp. I didn’t see a ball at all during this time. It was not easy and I finally have gotten used to it. My body is much fitter now. I have continued to train twice a day on my breaks when I have returned from the WNT. This phase continues and it’s real hard physically but I enjoy it. I enjoy being able to run box to box.
Phase 3, well I haven’t gotten to this phase yet and I am not sure what this is going to entail. This will be toward the end of my career.
Looking back explain what was lacking out of your game prior to Universal?
-Universal is based on the 5 pillars. (Technical, Tactical, Physical, Psychological and Character) I was weaker in the physical and psychological areas of the game. I was never taught the importance of being physically fit. As a central midfielder I need a good aerobic base and if you don’t have that, it will be hard to accomplish anything. It took me a good 4 years to build that base and I still maintain it. I also needed work on my mental game. I wasn’t mentally tough enough. I was never taught to only worry about the things I can control. I used to worry about everything including the things I can’t control. I only focus on myself now and how I can get keep getting better.
When you joined Universal you were not even in contention for the Women’s National Team. Did you believe that you would go on to become a key member of the USA midfield? When did you know that your dream of playing for the WNT was real?
If I didn’t join Universal, I wouldn’t be sitting here doing this interview. I am so lucky that Universal saw my potential and was able to take me to the next level. I thought about quitting. I would be in tears because I couldn’t figure out why I couldn’t do well when I was with the under 21 national team. I hit a plateau and Universal got me past it. I didn’t believe I would become a key member of the USA team right away. It took me a while to believe it, but with instant results camp after camp I slowly started to believe it more and more. Universal helped me find my dream again and believe in myself.
You scored the game winner to clinch the Olympic Gold. You impacted all Universal Students by showing them that you can find your dreams. How does that make you feel being such a role model to these aspiring players?
It didn’t make me feel any different, but to Universal and the students I was viewed differently. I was viewed as a champion and the more I thought about it the more I realized I impacted a lot more people than I thought. My dream started when I was a kid. I had ups and downs, almost quit; started training with Universal and suddenly my dream camp became a reality. It took a lot of hours, dedication, and sacrifices to make it happen. I wish I grew up with a live role model in my area. Everybody needs a role model and that is why it is important that I can be a role model to Universal students and other aspiring players.
You are respected by all Universal coaches, students and parents for simply joining in at any Universal session even with 12 year olds. What is the students’ reaction when you are participating in the same drills as they are?
It’s funny when I train at Universal with the other students because it’s as if I am just a normal student. I jump in, I am quiet, I train and the kids train. It’s really cool to see how focused the students are at training.
You’ve spent the most time training at Universal than any other student. Is the training still stimulating you? Are you still improving?
Every time I train at Universal it is something different. I am stimulated every time I train. As I keep improving, the drills keep getting harder. I still have many years to train with Universal and there is no doubt that the training sessions will continue to stimulate me and help me become the best player in the world.
This year you begin qualification for the World Cup. In 2011 the World Cup will be played in Germany. Have you started to think about the World Cup?
I am always envisioning the World Cup. I dream about it all the time. I want to win the World Cup Gold Medal. The last time this team has won Gold in a World Cup was 1999 and that is way too long.
The 2010 season begins a new chapter in your soccer career. You have returned home and playing for New Jersey Sky Blue. How have you settled in with the team?
I learned a lot last year in the WPS. I have grown so much as a person and a player since then. I have taken my game to a new level and will continue to get more fit and sharp. I am so excited to be home playing for Sky Blue FC. It is a great organization and I am really enjoying everyone on the team. Pauliina has done a great job with us and I really respect her. I want to do real well this season, from a team standpoint and a personal standpoint. I want to get better each and every game. The greatest thing about me playing in NJ is the fact that Universal is right around the corner from me. I will be doing extra there this season whenever I need it. Not being around Universal last year hurt me.
What advice can you give to any youngster looking to play center mid for the USA WNT?
-One of the most important things that I have learned from Universal and being with the WNT is that as a central midfielder you need to be able to play offense and defense. In order to that you need to be physically fit. You need to be able to run box to box during a game. There are so many talented players out there, but it’s the ones that have the extra edge, the ones who sacrifice everything, and the ones who dedicate their whole lives to soccer that will make it. It isn’t easy and I certainly didn’t have a smooth run, but I stayed the course and continued to focus on my goal. Never Give up and give it your all 100%, day in and day out.
Carli will be resuming her Professional Soccer career with WPS Champions New Jersey Sky Blue. The championship winning team was Carli’s number one choice and she is excited to join a team that is already loaded with high caliber players.
Playing for Sky Blue will allow Carli to continue to train at Universal Soccer Academy. This was a factor in Carli’s decision as she will be able to continue to improve her game and maintain her high level of play.
Back Home
Carli Lloyd has enjoyed her time off at home. Carli came home after her first WPS season with Chicago. Since coming home Carli has been able to spend 6 weeks training and preparing for WNT camp. Carli spent countless hours at the Academy where she focused on getting sharper with and without the ball.
Late September Carli rejoins her Women’s National Team (WNT) teammates where she is due to participate in the next WNT event. We are confident that she is going in well prepared.
Off to Chicago Red Stars
Carli came home to a hero’s reception after the Olympic Triumph. Her overtime goal touched the hearts of many soccer players around the world and more importantly gave hope to the young soccer player.
While playing over the last 6 years for the WNT, Carli and all her teammates knew that one day a new league will be formed. A league that seeks to be the best. That playing soccer week in week out for your club will become a reality.
In March 2009 this became a reality for these players as theWomens Professional Soccer League(WPS)was born. All National Team Players were drafted to teams from around the country.
Carli was drafted in the first round by the Chicago Red Stars. Carli has joined a Club that seeks to win it all. Head Coach Emma Hayes has built a team loaded with a lot of talent and plans to play good football along the way.
This is a new chapter in Carli’s life. We are sure she will give it her all to help her team succeed.
In what was expected to be one of the most anticipated finals in Women’s Olympic history, the USA has gone on to win the Olympic Gold. After an outstanding performance in goal by Hope Solo and a sound team defensive game in front of her, the USA came out winners with a 1-0 victory that came in the 95th minute from Carli Lloyd. The goal, Carli’s second at the Olympics and her biggest thus far in her career, will go down as one of the finest moments in USA women’s soccer history. Congratulations to the USA women’s national team on a miracle performance.
Vs Japan(Semi Final)
In a game that was expected to be tight, the USA ran off winners with a convincing 4-2 win. The USA played exceptional football as they created chance after chance. “We are gaining confidence and we are finding ways to score,” said Carli. In the Gold game, the USA will face favorites Brazil in what is expected to be a huge game. If the USA can continue to play as a unit, they could take home the gold.
Vs Canada(Quarter Final)
Another rough encounter against Canada. The USA came out with nice rhythm and created multiple chances and went 1-0 up before the game was interrupted by thunderstorms. The skies cleared up and the teams came out only to see Canada respond to make it 1-1. The game went into overtime before Angela Hucles scored the winner latching on to an O’Rielly cross.
Vs New Zealand
USA completely dominated the game, playing good soccer and scoring from 3 different players. In midfield, Carli had a solid game anchoring the midfield. “We are starting to play good soccer and the four goals will help our confidence." The USA faces Canada next in a game that is expected to be physical.
USA vs Japan
Carli Lloyd scored the lone goal as USA beat Japan in their second game of the Beijing Olympics. In the 27th minute, Carli met a cross from Stephanie Lopez to half volley a powerful shot past the Japanese goalkeeper. ”It felt good to score for the team. I feel that the goal helped us relax and gave us confidence," Carli said. “The more we play together the better we are getting. The next game is a must win and I am confident we will stay focused."
The USA controlled most of the play as they continue to improve in possession and team play. Next the USA will take on New Zealand. A win against the Kiwis will see them advance to the next phase.
USA vs Norway
In the first game of the Olympics, the USA lost 2-0 to Norway. After a disastrous start, the USA conceded both goals in 4 minutes. The USA regrouped and piled on pressure for most of the game but was unable to break through an organized Norwegian side. The USA now faces Japan in the next game at 5am ET on Saturday August 9.
Olympic Departure
Carli and the USA Women’s National Team have departed for the Olympics. The USA, still unbeaten since Pia’s appointment, will have a difficult task ahead of them with the loss of powerhouse striker Abby Wambach. "I am ready to play. It’s unfortunate about Abby and now we all need to give that extra effort. I am confident that we will be hard to beat. My coaches and teammates are fantastic. Together we will give 100% and we’ll see what happens," said Carli.
All games will be shown live. For more information Click Here.
July
Universal student Carli Lloyd completed a short and successful tour of Norway and Sweden with the USA WNT. The USA beat Norway in the first game convincingly with a 4-0 win. Carli scored the second of the game, latching on to a cross from Kai to strike her left footed shot into goal.
In the second game against Sweden, the USA won again thanks to another goal by Universal student Carli. The goal came from a corner kick which Carli played short to Lindsay Tarpley before getting it right back, dribbling through a crowd of defenders in the penalty area and hitting a shot that deflected off a player, finding the back of the net in the 41st minute. Once again “Pia’s Girls” continue to improve with every game.
June 23rd
Coach Pia Sundhage names Universal student Carli Lloyd to US Olympic Team. Carli is one of 18 players selected and it will be her first Olympic Games. The team will leave for Europe on Friday to play two exhibition games; one in Sweden and one in Norway. Before departing for China, the United States will play Brazil twice, on July 13 in Commerce City, Colo., and on July 16 in San Diego.The USA will open play at the 2008 Beijing Olympics on Aug. 6 against Norway in Qinhuangdao, China. The USA will then face Japan on Aug. 9, also in Qinhuangdao, before finishing Group G play against New Zealand on Aug. 12 in Shenyang.
May 10th
Carli and the WNT beat Canada 6-0. The game was a tremendous team effort, and Carli had a goal and an assist. Abby had 3 assists, Tarpley scored a goal, Natasha scored a hat trick and Leslie added the last goal. Everyone contributed in this win over Canada. Pia and the coaching staff are doing a fantastic job working with the team. Carli is home for a week and then back to the National Team for a 2 week camp in LA.
April 26th
Carli Lloyd was the star of a 3-2 win over Australia. Carli scored the winner in the 91st minute as the USA clinched another win with a solid display of football in wet conditions. After an outstanding display in midfield, Carli set up the first goal with a precise through ball that found Natasha Kai. Abby Wambach scored the second. The never say die attitude of the Aussies saw them come back to tie the game late in the game before Carli headed in the winner at the back post. “I feel really good. We have been working on our fitness at training and it’s starting to pay off for me. I’m just trying to help my team win every game," said Carli. The USA WNT will play Australia again next week in Alabama. See the highlights.
Olympic Qualifiers
April 13
The USA WNT is crowned CONCACAF champions again. After a scoreless full 90, the USA scored in the second period of extra time by Universal student Carli Lloyd off a driven free kick just outside the box. “It finally came," said Carli. “I have taken a lot of free kicks recently and it has slowly gotten better. Now I hope I can move on and score frequently.” The USA’s lead was taken away with just 2 minutes to go by the Canadians, forcing the game into a penalty shootout. The USA went on to win and retain the CONCACAF Cup and win a spot at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China.
Carli returns home today(April 13) and will rest up before beginning a short training cycle at Universal where she will focus on all her free kicks and corners. Please check our schedule link for the exact training times.
April 10th
The USA WNT seals a spot in the Beijing Olympics with another win, this time over a stubborn and proud Costa Rican side. The USA scored all three of its goals in the second half. Universal Student Carli Lloyd had another outstanding game in midfield. “Yeah, we are happy. We are going to the Olympics," said Carli. "The game was played in weird weather conditions as a sand storm was lurking throughout the game. It was hard to see during some periods of the game. We finished the game and we all had sand all over us." This is a proud moment for Carli as she looks set to participate in her first Olympics. We are all very proud of Carli and the USA WNT. Carli and the WNT will face Canada in the CONCACAF Finals, April 12 at 9:30PM EST.
April 6th
The USA WNT won their crucial Olympic qualifying game against host Mexico. In front of a sellout crowd, the WNT put on another exceptional performance to score three first half goals. Universal Student Carli Lloyd had another fine game in the midfield as she helped her team win convincingly 3- 1. Carli won the ball in the 31st minute and played a precise long ball to Heather O’Rielly who crossed the ball to Natasha Kai to score her first of two goals. Abby Wambach scored the second in the 32nd minute before Kai sealed the win in the 45th minute. “We keep getting better,” Carli said. “At the end of the game we were forced to play possession to assure that Mexico didn’t have the ball and we did a great job of holding it for long periods." U.S. WNT is set to face Costa Rica at 7 p.m. ET on Wednesday, April 9, for an Olympic Berth.
April 5th
The USA WNT started their Olympic Qualifying Campaign with an easy 6-0 win against an improving Jamaica. Carli scored her 12th career goal in the 16th minute. “Abby cut the ball back and I slotted it in," said Carli. Coach Pia Sundhage made the maximum three substitutions when she replaced Lloyd, Rampone and Wambach. “I knew I wasn’t going to play the full game prior to the game. Pia wants us ready for our next game against Mexico," said Carli. The WNT will now play against hosts Mexico in 2 Days (April 6th) .The game can be followed on USSOOCER.COM
Mar 24
Carli is back in Camp with the WNT. After a series of fitness tests, the team will focus on qualifying for the Olympics, before playing a 2 games series against the Australian National Team (Matildas as they’re known Down Under).
2008 U.S. Women’s National Team Upcoming Schedule
Date
Opponent
Location
Kickoff (ET)
April 4
Jamaica*
Ciudad Juarez, Mexico
10:30 p.m.
April 6
Mexico*
Ciudad Juarez, Mexico
4:30 p.m.
April 9
Semifinal
Ciudad Juarez, Mexico
TBD
April 12
Final-Canada
Ciudad Juarez, Mexico
9:30 p.m.
April 27
Australia
Cary, N.C.
7 p.m.
May 3
Australia
Birmingham, Ala.
5 p.m.
Algarve Cup
Mar 13
The USA Women’s National Team won the Algarve Cup yesterday. Playing in windy conditions, the WNT beat Denmark 2-1 in another quality performance from the team. Carli slightly strained her hamstring, and was substituted early as a precautionary measure. "I wasn’t running right," said Carli. Carli now returns home to relax, heal, and prepare for the WNT Olympic qualifiers. Mar 11
USA advances to the final of the Algarve Cup again. The USA was challenged in the first half before breaking the deadlock and then going on to win the game convincingly 4-0. The USA also beat Italy on Monday in a tough encounter to go 3-0 in the group phase. Now they will face Denmark in the final. The match kicks off on Wednesday at 1:15 p.m. local / 9:15 a.m. ET and fans can follow along as the action happens on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker located on the home page.
To view videos of the USA National team go to studio 90 on the right hand side of the home page of ussoccer.com.
Mar 5
USA Women’s National Team won its first game this morning 8:45 am ET, beating China 4-0. The team played an outstanding game and Universal student Carli Lloyd called us after the game to share the great news from Portugal. “This was definitely the best game I have ever played in the USA jersey. I have been working hard to play the way my coaches want me to play and it’s finally all coming together." The USA played an exceptional brand of soccer on their way to beating China by the biggest margin ever between the two teams. Carli had a goal and an assist in the game. “I chipped the ball to Tarp and she put it away," said Carli. "And your goal," we asked. “It was nice ball movement from the team and Tash played me a ball and I dribbled past 3 players and shot low and hard and it went in far post." Another outstanding performance from Pia’s gang as they seem to be getting better with every game.
Next game is against Italy. For all information on the upcoming games visit www.ussoccer.com. All games can be followed through Matchtracker.
Feb 11th
Carli got to meet David Beckham today. Beckham was getting out of his car at the Home Depot Center as Carli and other WNT members saw the free kick specialist. "The girls went up to him so I followed," Carli said. "He is really as good looking in real life as he is in ads," Carli added. Carli has been in a special training camp with the WNT where she has been working hard doing double sessions almost daily.
Feb 4th
Two days into camp Carli is progressing nicely under Pia’s tutelage and training methods. "I love the training. I look forward to it," said Carli. Thus far Carli has played multiple positions for the team as she is learning a new way of playing. "We are possessing the ball more now. Settling the play down and then attacking with patience and speed," said Carli.
Carli returns to the Academy on Feb 21st before reuniting with her team for her flight to Portugal to compete in the Algarve Cup. At last year’s Algarve Cup, Carli helped the USA win this prestigious tournament and she went on to win MVP and Top Goal Scorer. "I’m not thinking about anything but to help my team win. Whoever wins the individual trophies doesn’t really matter. It’s who wins the championship. You can’t do it on your own. You need support," said Carli.
Carli wil spend time at the Academy working all her dead ball skills and refining her advanced skills. Universal students will have the opportunity to workout with Carli again as she will be attending most Universal Classes.
Jan 27th
Carli Lloyd is home from her recent journey. After spending 49 days living out of a suitcase, Carli finally came home on an overnight flight at 7:30 AM Sunday (27th). Being such a “soccer junkie” that she is, she made it to the Senior Skillfest Program before working personally on her fitness with Universal Staff. Carli’s physical conditioning looks to be outstanding at this moment and she is ready for the next phase of training with the Women’s National Team.
Tomorrow night Monday 18th in Cherry Hill, NJ, Carli will be honored by the Philadelphia Sportswriters Association. Carli will accept the Philadelphia SportsWriters’ Association’s prestigious Native Son/Daughter Award. This is a big honor for her and we are all very proud of her. She works hard.
Tickets for tomorrow’s banquet - cocktails start at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. - are available at www.pswa.org, or by calling 609-702-7473
Four Nations
Jan 20th
USA Women’s National team won their first championship under new coach Pia Sundhage. In a scrappy game, the USA won the game in the 77th minute, when Shannon Boxx headed in a fine header to give the USA the lead and victory. Carli again had a solid game and was very pleased with her overall performance at the Four Nations Cup.
2008 Four Nations Tournament Awards Best Player: Heather O’Reilly (USA)
Top Scorer: Lindsay Tarpley (USA)
Best Goalkeeper: Zhang Yanru (China)
Best Coach: Pia Sundhage (USA)
Fair Play Award: USA
Jan18th
Carli Lloyd played an outstanding overnight as the USA Women’s National team beat Finland 4-1 in the Four Nations Cup in China. Carli played a different role last night in the midfield as she linked passes and defended rigorously to help the team dominate and win the game.
Carli is currently in China with the Women’s National Team ready to play in the Four Nations Cup. The team has been training and Carli loves the training environment that Pia is creating. "I look forward to training. It has been more then great," said Carli.
After a vigorous Australian training trip, Carli went into camp prepared and hopes her hard work will pay off with a starting spot in the line up to face Canada in the first game.
2008 Four Nations Tournament Schedule Date Match-Up City Kickoff / ET
Jan. 16 USA vs. Canada Foshan, China 1:00 p.m. / 12 a.m.
Jan. 16 China vs. Finland Foshan, China 4:30 p.m. / 3:30 a.m.
Jan. 18 Finland vs. USA Foshan, China 2 p.m. / 1 a.m.
Jan. 18 China vs. Canada Foshan, China 4:30 p.m. / 3:30 a.m.
Jan. 20 Canada vs. Finland Foshan, China 1 p.m. / 12 a.m.
Jan. 20 USA vs. China Foshan, China 4:30 p.m. / 3:30 a.m.
The team will play against Canada on the 16th
Dec 30
USA National Team player Carli Lloyd is currently in Australia in preparation for January 4th camp. Carli has been working out in Melbourne, Australia where she is focusing on Physical Power and Skill. Carli has been running on the hilly terrain, boxing daily and building a stronger upper body. Off the field Carli has been greeted with a lot of respect from the local athletes and media. Meeting former and current professional players, Carli has also been able to further improve her mental skills from talking and being around these athletes that know how Carli thinks and needs to think. Carli is on schedule to go into camp in great physical and mental condition again. Her first camp with Pia was a great experience and Carli came home enthused and motivated about the future.
Lloyd Back at Training Dec 12-07
Carli Lloyd is back at training after a short break. Carli will be training often at Universal for the next 2 months. Carli has been working hard for 2 weeks, working all her skills with a focus on First Touch, Foot Skills and Physical Explosiveness. Carli is expected to continue reaching new levels of skill and fitness. The Academy will continue to put Carli through her specifically designed program before she heads back to camp on December 8th, where she will work for the first time under new coach Pia Sundhage. "I have heard nothing but great things about Pia. I can’t wait to start training again," said Carli. After camp, Carli will be traveling to Australia on a special mission to become even fitter. She will participate in pre-season training with various Australian clubs and train in some of Australia’s roughest fitness courses that include Running, Swimming, Cycling, Boxing, Karate and Mountain Climbing. She is expected to be back home early January before going back to camp to begin preparations for the 2008 Olympics. For more information on Carli check out her website www.carlilloyd.com
