Biography
Who is Tony Lochhead?
Early life and schooling
Tony Lochhead James Lochhead arrived in the world on January 12, 1982, within the city of Tauranga, New Zealand. As a student at Ōtūmoetai College in his hometown, he participated in football and volleyball programs. He moved to the United States in 2001 to pursue higher education at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
During his time there, Tony competed for the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos. He was a starting player for 83 consecutive matches and set a program record for total minutes played. In his senior year, he helped lead the team to the finals of the 2004 NCAA Division I Men's Soccer Championship. He earned accolades including first-team All-Big West Conference honors in 2003 and was named the Big West Defensive Player of the Year in 2004.
Professional club career
Before his collegiate career, Tony played for Tauranga City United AFC in the New Zealand National Soccer League. While attending university, he also made ten appearances for the Orange County Blue Star, which was part of the USL Premier Development League. Following his graduation, he was selected 33rd overall in the 2005 MLS SuperDraft by the New England Revolution.
He initially declined to sign with the league to attempt trials with European organizations. After stints with R.S.C. Anderlecht in Belgium and trials in Sweden and Norway, he signed with the New England Revolution in September 2005. He made his debut for the club in April 2006 against the Chicago Fire.
Time with Wellington Phoenix and Chivas
In May 2007, Tony joined the Wellington Phoenix FC in Australia's A-League on a two-year deal. He became a significant part of the roster, especially becoming the first player for the club to reach 50 appearances during a match against Gold Coast United FC in November 2009. He remained with the team until his release in June 2013.
Shortly after, in January 2014, he signed with the Major League Soccer franchise Chivas USA. He played there until the club ceased operations after the 2014 season.
International play
Internationally, Tony represented his home country at the under-17 and under-23 levels. He debuted for the senior national team, known as the All Whites, during a match against Iran in 2003. He was a regular starter for the team throughout the qualification process for the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
He was also selected for the squad that participated in the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup. Above all, he helped the team qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament in South Africa and was named to the final 23-man roster for the competition.
Personal life and retirement
Tony married Samantha Powell, who was a contestant for Miss Universe New Zealand in 2008, in August 2012. After concluding his professional athletic career, he transitioned into the business world. He began working in commercial real estate with Colliers International, specifically based in Southern California.
Birthday and age
Tony Lochhead was born on January 12, 1982, which makes Tony 44 years old today. That birthday falls under the Capricorn sign. Tony shares the date with 40 other famous people.
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