U.S. Soccer star Carli Lloyd can add another honor to her collection of trophies, medals and accomplishments: her own day.
The Burlington County Commissioners approved a resolution Wednesday proclaiming Oct. 14, 2021, as “Carli Lloyd Day” throughout Burlington County in recognition of the Delran native’s outstanding soccer career. The day was selected to coincide with Delran’s retirement party for the hometown hero.
“Burlington County has a lot to be proud about and close to the top of the list is being the home of Carli Lloyd, America’s soccer hero and an inspiration for young girls and boys across the globe,” said Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “Carli isn’t just a stellar athlete, she’s a champion role model who epitomizes the benefits of perseverance and hard work. She’s represented both our country and our county in an amazing fashion and has made us all proud to call her one of Burlington County’s very own.”
“Whether scoring goals for Delran, Rutgers, Gotham FC or the USA, Carli has always played with grit and determination, and displayed her South Jersey credentials proudly,” added Commissioner Deputy Director Dan O’Connell. “Soccer fans across the globe know about Delran in Burlington County, New Jersey because of her outstanding performance and achievements. This resolution is intended to express our thanks and to help make her retirement party all the more special. I can think of few people more deserving than Carli.”
Lloyd is one of the most accomplished and prolific goal-scorers in the history of U.S. soccer and among the most celebrated athletes to ever call Burlington County home.
Lloyd attended Delran High School from 1997 to 2000. She then attended Rutgers University, earning an Exercise Science and Sports Studies degree in 2005 while becoming the Scarlet Knights all-time leading scorer and a two-time All-American.
Lloyd made her US National Team debut in 2005 and scored her first international goal in 2006. Her 134 career international goals rank 4th all-time among US players. She has played in four World Cups and four Olympic games and helped lead the US to two World Cups and two Olympic gold medals during her illustrious international career.
During her professional career, Lloyd has also played for several professional teams, including the Chicago Red Stars, Atlanta Beat, Western New York Flash, Houston Dash and the NJ/NY Gotham FC (previously known as New Jersey Sky Blue FC). She also played a season with Manchester City in England, where she won the 2016-17 FA Cup trophy.
An official copy of the Burlington County resolution was presented to Lloyd on Thursday evening during Delran’s Carli Lloyd retirement ceremony at Delran Community Park on Hartford Road.