SOMERSET, N.J. (Oct. 21, 2009) – Former Rutgers standout Carli Lloyd joins the defending Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) Champion Sky Blue FC, it was announced Monday. Lloyd, the Scarlet Knights’ all-time points (117) and goals (50) leader, should feel right at home, as Sky Blue will play all their 2010 home matches at Yurcak Field. The 2008 U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year signed as a free agent after spending her first season in WPS with the Chicago Red Stars.
“Its funny how life works - I was disappointed when (Lloyd’s) first destination was Chicago, but things happen for a reason,” said head coach Glenn Crooks. “We're excited to have her back home.”
Lloyd, who became the first Scarlet Knight to earn All-BIG EAST first team honors four times during her career (2001-2004) was selected by the Chicago Red Stars after the middy scored the United States’ lone goal in their 1-0 gold-medal win over Brazil in the 2008 Summer Olympics.
“I have a lot of memories of playing in New Jersey, and it is great to be back home,” Lloyd said in a statement. “I am very excited to be part of Sky Blue FC and to be playing with so many players that I already know so well from being teammates on the national team. When you have that kind of familiarity, it really translates onto the field, and I can’t wait to get started.”
