Ms. Namita Nayyar: You started playing soccer at a very young age of five years and reached the pinnacle of success on scoring the gold medal-winning goals in the finals of both the 2008 Summer Olympics and the 2012 Summer Olympics. What factors you consider were responsible that made you achieve that?
Ms. Carli Lloyd: Growing up I had the opportunity to play for a great club in NJ, www.medfordstrikers.com and had parents that fully supported me and helped me build a solid foundation. This foundation was enhanced when I started working with my mentor James Galanis of www.universalsocceracademy.com. He set out a clear plan that was designed to transform me into a world class player and I bought into it. My dedication and willingness to put in all the work required to make this possible mixed in with the expertise training that James provides has helped me continuously improve and perform at the biggest stage like the Olympics.
Ms. Namita Nayyar: Although you suffered a broken ankle in the fourth game of the 2010 WPS Season while playing for Sky Blue FC, you played in 15 matches for the United States in 2010, starting 14. You started all five games at the 2010 CONCACAF Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament, scoring two goals, including the United States’ lone goal during the championship match. You ended the tournament with five assists and was named the Player of the Match three times during the tournament. How you were able to overcome such a physical injury setback and what advice you can give to fellow sports person in a similar situation?
Ms. Carli Lloyd: Injuries are never easy but injuries are part of sport and will happen. These setbacks make you stronger and appreciate the game even more. I have learned that it is important to be patient and rebuild your body so it doesn’t break down again. The ankle injury was not easy for me but in the end worked out to my benefit. I came back smarter, hungrier and more appreciative of a healthy body.
Ms. Namita Nayyar: What exercises comprise your fitness regime or workout routine you shall like to share?
Ms. Carli Lloyd: I do a variety of different things to continuously build my fitness levels. I’m constantly working at my aerobic power, non-aerobic power and strength and power doing body weight exercises. I also spend countless hours stretching. Over 50% of my training load is fitness related.
Ms. Namita Nayyar: Do you take some special diet or have a strict menu that you follow to remain healthy and physically fit?
Ms. Carli Lloyd: I have studied what foods suit my blood type and have designed a specific diet that energizes me. My diet is made up of a lot of fruit and veggies, salads, meats, and fish. I make shakes with all organic items and have invested in grass fed beef and non-farmed fish. My snacks are mostly different types of nuts and water is a huge part of my life. I definitely stay away from processed foods. Eating healthy definitely helps in all aspects when it comes to training and performing.
Ms. Namita Nayyar: Advice and motivational words to the inspiring and budding professional soccer girls who all are your fans, they shall like to know from you, what they should do for their climb to ladder of success in field of professional soccer ?
Ms. Carli Lloyd: It is not good enough to only train as much as your teammates. The only way you will separate yourself from others is by training more than anyone. If you want to become great you must outwork and out train everyone. I don’t ever switch off. Soccer is my life. Soccer is the #1 thing in my life and I’m on the job 24 hours a day.
Ms. Namita Nayyar: How did you feel before and after playing for United States women’s national soccer team scoring your first memorable international goal on 1st October 2006 against Chinese Tapai?
Ms. Carli Lloyd: Things happened rather quickly. I joined the team in 2005 and earned two caps during this year and finally was in the mix in 2006. I was in camp and unexpectedly named on the roster for the game against Chinese Tapai. I wasn’t sure I would get in the game and thought I was just going to sit the bench. All of a sudden I was called up and really didn’t get time to think about it. I went on and the opportunity presented itself and I scored my first international goal! It was like a dream came true and a moment I will never forget.
Ms. Namita Nayyar: What kind of training you are having for your preparation for coming professional soccer events ?
Ms. Carli Lloyd: I don’t have anything specific to share. I continue to work on all areas of my game and do everything I can to assure I am always ready to play at the best of my ability.
Ms. Namita Nayyar: Who has been your greatest influencer and motivator in your success in the field of your career in competitive professional soccer ?
Ms. Carli Lloyd: Without a doubt my trainer and mentor James Galanis. He has not only trained my mind and body and improved my skills but he has always been there to give me advice that has helped me conquer all obstacles thrown my way. His dedication to the game is unmatched and contagious. He preaches respect and appreciation for myself and those around me. This has helped me realize that I’m blessed to be able to play with great players and coaches on the national team and in professional club soccer. Without him there is no way I would have reached the level I have reached.
Videos
Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
