Orlando Pride Defender Carrie Lawrence Announces Retirement

Carrie Lawrence Bids Farewell to Professional Soccer After Triumphant Career in Orlando

Carrie Lawrence, a stalwart defender deeply entrenched in the Orlando soccer community, has announced her retirement from professional soccer. A champion both on and off the field, Lawrence leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond her impressive on-field achievements.

“Orlando Will Forever Be Home!”

“After giving my whole life to this sport, I am extremely blessed and grateful to announce my retirement,” Lawrence expressed. “There is nowhere else I’d rather be than Orlando, it’s been my home from the start of my professional career, and it gave me everything in return. Winning the Shield and the Championship this year is more than I could have dreamed. Most importantly, this group of people made it that much sweeter. Orlando will forever be home!”

A Fusion of City Pride and Local Talent

Lawrence’s connection with Orlando transcends her professional career. Hailing from the city, she played for the University of Central Florida (UCF) before joining the Orlando Pride in 2019 as a training player. Her dedication and talent quickly earned her a spot on the roster, where she amassed 33 appearances throughout her NWSL career, all with the Pride.

“Carrie means so much to this Club but also means so much to the city of Orlando. To be a native of Orlando, play at UCF and represent the Pride badge the way she has speaks volumes to the type of person she is,” VP of Soccer Operations and Sporting Director Haley Carter remarked. “Her perseverance to battle back from injuries and constant positive energy epitomize the kind of players we want to represent this Club. We are so thankful for everything Carrie has done for us and can’t wait to continue to support her in any way she needs during this transition. We are proud to have Carrie a part of our Pride family and are so excited to see what she does in the next chapter of her life.

Leaving a Lasting Impact

Lawrence’s impact extends beyond mere statistics. Her two assists, the most recent being a crucial setup for a Barbra Banda goal against the North Carolina Courage in a resounding 4-1 victory for the Pride during the 2024 campaign, showcase her creative playmaking abilities.

She made her professional debut on September 19, 2020, in a hard-fought 0-0 draw against North Carolina. The UCF product played a vital role in that match, demonstrating her defensive prowess by making a crucial goal-line clearance that kept the score level.

Before becoming a Pride icon, Lawrence excelled at UCF, earning a starting spot all three years of her college career (2016-2018). She amassed an impressive 49 appearances, scoring four goals and adding 11 assists, solidifying her place as a key member of the Knights. Her remarkable athletic and academic achievements garnered her recognition as a Second Team All-American Athletic Conference honoree during her senior year.

TRANSACTION: Defender Carrie Lawrence retires.

Do you thinkCarrie Lawrence will stay involved with soccer in some capacity, even ⁢though she is retiring⁤ from playing?

## Local​ Hero Carrie Lawrence Hangs Up Her Boots

Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Carrie Lawrence, Orlando Pride defender, who recently⁣ announced her retirement from professional ‌soccer. Carrie, ⁤welcome to the show!

Thank you for having me, I’m⁣ happy to be here!

Carrie, you’ve‌ had an incredible career right here ​in your ‌hometown. What will⁣ you⁢ remember most about your time with the Pride? [ [1](https://www.orlandocitysc.com/pride/news/orlando-pride-defender-carrie-lawrence-announces-retirement) ]

>

> It’s hard to‍ put into words what this experience has meant to me. There’s truly nowhere else ⁢I would have wanted to play. Winning the Shield and Championship this year with this team ⁣was a ​dream come true. It⁣ wouldn’t​ have‌ been the same without the incredible support from the city and⁤ the fans. Orlando ‌will always be home.

That’s fantastic, and it’s great to hear you had such⁢ a positive experience. What’s ‌next for Carrie​ Lawrence?

> I’m excited for this next chapter! I’m looking forward to spending more time with my‍ family and friends and exploring ‍new opportunities. ‌But​ you can be sure I’ll still be cheering on ‌the Pride from the stands!

Well Carrie,⁢ congratulations on‍ a fantastic ⁢career, and best of⁣ luck in⁢ your future ‍endeavors. Thank you⁣ for⁢ joining us ​today!

> ‌You’re very ⁤welcome, thank you for⁣ having me!