Benneckenstein, Lloyd sign to continue their soccer careers

FULTON, Miss. – Julia Benneckenstein and Beth Lloyd have signed to continue their soccer career after their time at ICC. Benneckenstein will play at Thomas Jefferson University and Lloyd will play at Bethel College.

Benneckenstein, a midfielder from Vaduz, Liechtenstein, recorded six goals and three assists while posting a .545 shot percentage in her final season at ICC. Four of her six goals were also game-winners against Pellissippi State, Southern Union, Southwest Tennessee and Pearl River.

When talking about her two years at ICC, Benneckenstein says they were some of the best she's ever had.

"I think these past two years are some of the best years I've had in my life," Benneckenstein said. "I met lifelong friends, and I couldn't have done it without the people I've met and the coaches."

Benneckenstein joins the Lady Rams located in Philadelphia, Pa. They compete in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) and are a National College Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II member.

Lloyd, a forward from Failsworth, England, scored nine goals, including a game-winner against Southwest, while picking up eight assists.

Lloyd spoke of her excitement about going to the next level, but also looked back on her time at ICC.

"I'm really excited for this opportunity. I can't wait to continue with my soccer career and my education," Lloyd said. "I've had the most amazing time here at ICC. I've made my best friends and I couldn't have done it without them."

Lloyd joins the Lady Threshers located in North Newton, Kan. They compete in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) and are a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) member.

ICC women's soccer head coach David Strother expressed his excitement for Benneckenstein and Lloyd for their opportunities to play at the next level while continuing their education.

"Julia and Beth have come in and been exceptional student athletes for us during their two years here with the program," Strother said. "They both had additional offers on top of these ones that they decided on. What I was proud of them for was they found the right fit and here at Itawamba, we love that."