Sky Blue FC signs former USWNT goalkeeper Jill Loyden

Sky Blue FC (3-4-4, 13 points) announced Friday, July 8, that they have signed  former United States Women's National Team and Sky Blue goalkeeper Jill Loyden.

Loyden will serve as a replacement goalkeeper as starting keeper Caroline Stanley recovers from a shoulder sprain suffered last week during Sky Blue FC's match against Portland Thorns FC. Loyden has been serving as an assistant coach with Sky Blue FC this season.

"We are delighted to have Jill back involved with the first team," said Christy Holly, Sky Blue FC head coach. "We are very fortunate to be able to bring on a player of her experience and caliber. She is very familiar with what we have been doing here all season long, and she has a great connection with the players. Additionally, her decision speaks volumes about her level of commitment to our club."

Loyden's last match with Sky Blue FC as a player was in 2014, and her record with the club is impressive. She made 69 saves, recorded four clean sheets and logged 17 starts. This week, Caroline Casey, who has made three appearances and 10 saves so far this season, joins Loyden on the roster.

"Obviously, this was not part of the original plan, but the team needs an extra goalkeeper at this time," Loyden stated. "I am happy to help in any capacity or role where I may be needed until we can get Caroline Stanley back and healthy again."

Loyden, a Vineland, New Jersey native has been with Sky Blue FC since the beginning of the franchise. She played for multiple other clubs in the days of Women's Professional Soccer (WPS), including the Chicago Red Stars and St. Louis Athletica. She was a three time Big East Goalkeeper of the year while she was at Villanova.

Loyden was a member of the USWNT beginning in 2010, earning her first cap on October 1, 2010. She was on the USWNT for the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup and served as an alternate in the 2012 Olympic games where the US won gold.

Loyden is the owner operator of The Keeper's Institute (TKI) which teaches young aspiring goalkeepers every aspect of the game. She is also the founder of The Jillian Loyden Foundation whose mission is to create and support signature programs and activities that motivate young people by empowering them and helping them find value in themselves. Every year, the foundation holds a "Break the Silence" gala to help raise awareness about domestic violence and empower those effected by it.

Sky Blue FC returns home to Yurcak field this Saturday, July 9th to take on the Houston Dash.