Kyle Ashley, Associate Producer
Published:
Kyle Ashley, Associate Producer
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Carson Pickett, a Fleming Island native and professional soccer standout for the Orlando Pride, received a proclamation in her honor during the Clay County Board of County Commissioners meeting on Wednesday night. The proclamation recognized Pickett for her extraordinary success in soccer, her advocacy for limb difference awareness, and her ability to inspire young athletes across the United States.
“Receiving a proclamation in general is just something I never thought would happen,” Pickett said. “I’m just so honored and so proud, and I’m just so appreciative of this community. I hope to continue to inspire this community, young and old.”
Pickett’s journey began in Clay County, where she attended St. Johns Country Day School and led the soccer team to three state championships. She earned numerous accolades during her high school career, including the Gatorade Girls Soccer Player of the Year and the Florida Times-Union First Coast Player of the Year in 2012.
She continued her soccer career at Florida State University, where she became a four-year starter and a key defender. Pickett helped the Seminoles secure their first NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Championship in 2014, anchoring a defense that allowed no goals throughout the entire tournament.
Following her collegiate success, Pickett was drafted fourth overall by Seattle Reign FC in 2016. Her professional career includes stints with Racing Louisville FC, Brisbane Roar FC, and North Carolina Courage, where she was named to the NWSL Best XI in both 2021 and 2022.
In 2022, Pickett made history by becoming the first Clay County player to represent the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT). She debuted in a match against Colombia, inspiring young athletes around the country and setting an example for what is possible through hard work and resilience.
“I feel very honored for this,” Pickett said. “I’m very proud of where I come from, and I hope to inspire generations — any kids, but also adults in Clay County. Thank you so much for this. I’m so appreciative, and I hope I continue to inspire everyone.”
Off the field, Pickett has become a passionate advocate for limb difference awareness, showing that determination can overcome any challenge. Born without part of her left arm, Pickett has used her platform to inspire others and raise awareness about limb differences, proving that excellence in sports and life has no limits.
Her impact as a role model extends to her character and leadership, as highlighted by the Clay County Commissioners.
“What the national media won’t tell you is what type of person Carson is,” one commissioner said during the meeting. “She would never talk about her accolades or awards, but she truly is a fantastic teammate and motivator. People see that, and people in our community have seen that. We’re so proud that you’re from Clay County.”
In 2024, Pickett’s career reached new heights as a key player for the Orlando Pride. Her contributions helped lead the team to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) Shield Championship.
As she prepares for the upcoming season, Pickett shared advice she lives by, crediting her father for inspiring her outlook on life. Her father, Mike, is the girls soccer coach at St. Johns and one of the most successful coaches in any sport in state history.
“My dad always says, ‘Never let anyone turn your sky into a ceiling,’” Pickett said. “Never let anyone say that you’re not good enough or that you can’t do something. Continue to strive for greatness and always break barriers.”
The Clay County proclamation celebrated not just Pickett’s accomplishments on the field but also her dedication to excellence, sportsmanship, and her ability to inspire others.
“Her story, growing up here in Clay County and the Clay County Soccer Club, really does matter,” the commissioner added. “It makes a huge difference. We wish you the best of luck as you continue to represent Clay County on the global stage.”
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