Athlete of the Week: Lincoln High's Robbie Lloyd commits to Chico State University for soccer

The Lincoln High boys' soccer team, currently undefeated at 8-0, is fifth in the Sac-Joaquin Section MaxPreps rankings. It's quite possible that the Fighting Zebras wouldn't have their current success if it weren't for senior Robbie Lloyd, who has scored 11 goals and four assists in the first eight matches. Lloyd had two goals in the Zebras' most recent 3-1 win over Del Oro High on Dec. 17. Lloyd is currently tied for ninth in the section in goals scored and recently committed to Chico State University for soccer. The Lincoln News Messenger asked Lloyd some questions and his answers follow. What is the best part about playing soccer at Lincoln High School? Lloyd: "I would say the best part about playing soccer at Lincoln High is getting to play with your classmates and friends. It's a different environment compared to club soccer." How long have you been playing soccer competitively and who/what is your biggest motivation? Lloyd: "I've been playing soccer since I was 4 years old. It has always been big in my family, which is why I would say my grandmother is my biggest inspiration. She has always been there since day one supporting me and anything I do." Do you have a favorite professional athlete? If so, who and why? Lloyd: "I would say my favorite athlete is Lionel Messi, probably the greatest soccer player of all time in any aspect of the game and has proven that on multiple occasions such as this year's World Cup." Did any of your family members play sports and if so who and at what levels? Lloyd: "Both of my parents played soccer throughout their life but nothing beyond high school soccer so it's pretty amazing to continue my career in soccer at Chico State University." How exciting is it to already be committed to collegiate soccer and what are you most looking forward to? Lloyd: "I'm very excited to be committed to Chico State University. It was a goal of mine to continue soccer in college and I can't wait for that next step in my career. I'm excited for the next level of competition and commitment needed at the college level and can't wait to see what is to come in Chico for me." You have scored 11 goals for Lincoln High, including two in a tournament final against Del Oro High. What is working so well for you on the attacking front to start the season? Lloyd: "I wouldn't have been able to score that amount without the help of my team. I believe this year, we could make it to the playoffs without a doubt. I would say we're more connected as a whole compared to last year and that's what is helping us get the ball in the back of the net." What part of your game would you say is the strongest and then what is an area you can improve upon the most? Lloyd: "I would say my size and speed are my main features and the key to my success is winning the ball and working hard to keep it. I feel like everyone wants to improve their technical skill and that's something I've been wanting to improve on as I progress." What are your biggest goals for the rest of your junior season? Lloyd: "Well, definitely my biggest goal is to make it to the playoffs and do well to win the league. There's also another goal that myself as well as Zac Giles are trying to accomplish and that's beating the school record for most goals scored through the season, which is 26." Have you ever been involved in other sports? Lloyd: "I have never been involved in other sports. It would've been nice to try out football, but I was committed to soccer and focusing all my energy on that." What is/has been your favorite class in high school and why? Lloyd: "I would say my favorite class in high school is weight training class. It's a good exercise and it's something different than sitting down in a classroom the whole time." Who is your favorite musical artist/band? Lloyd: "Juice WRLD." Favorite restaurant? Lloyd: "In-N-Out is definitely one of my favorites. It's the spot after any soccer game and also pretty cheap for some really good food. Outside of school and playing soccer, what do you like to do in your free time? Lloyd: "I enjoy hanging out with my friends. It doesn't really matter what we're doing, I'll always be having a good time." Is there a particular job you'd like to have someday? Lloyd: "Not sure yet. I wouldn't mind something in the sports medical field but definitely still figuring that out." If you had a piece of advice for other local athletes, what would you tell them? Lloyd: "I would say creating highlight videos and emailing college recruiters is key. Any type of exposure goes a long way and helps the sooner you get it done."