How soccer star Ali Krieger has used her platform for activism

Let it be known, Ali Krieger is a force to be reckoned with both on and off the field. Not only has she positioned herself as one of the top athletes in her field by playing at the highest level of women's soccer both domestically and internationally, but Krieger also doesn't let internet haters bring her down.

The Olympic hopeful is incredibly vocal on social media, whether it be to speak out about gender discrepancies in her field or call out online bullying, and she will soon be launching a campaign to help curb bullying. As she notes, "I think bullies need the most love. Hopefully, I'll create something that with help a lot of people and encourage others to be kind and spread kindness."

We recently sat down with the incredible athlete and advocate to talk about her online activism, what the plans are for her anti-bullying campaign, and more!

#YouShouldKnow is a feature that showcases rising talents. To see more past interviews, including more Ali Krieger exclusives, click here.

You're also very much a vocal activist on social media. Why did you decide to take on that role?
I take it up 100%. I want to be a role model, especially for anti-bullying. Sadly I've seen it too many times and we love connecting with our fans online but there's a line that has to be drawn. People start making assumptions and while you want to share your life with your fans because you want to motivate them to better themselves, then it's not always a positive reaction. I've taken a lot of heat in the past year unfortunately, but you have to stand up and fight against it. You have to fight for yourself and fight for what's right.

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I know that a lot of close teammates of mine are struggling with the same thing, so I want to be that advocate and stand up for myself. I am proud of that and my teammates support it. I'm going to be announcing a campaign soon that will move forward with this advocacy of anti-bullying. I've got so many response and great feedback from kids and parents who have seen their kids struggle through bullying and negativity online. I think that I really want to help stop this. Like I said in my statement, I think bullies need the most love. Hopefully, I'll create something that with help a lot of people and encourage others to be kind and spread kindness.

What is the one piece of advice you wish you had received before becoming a professional athlete?
One of the best advice I've received is that you can only control two things in your life: your actions and your attitude. That's something I wish I learned younger growing up. Just surround yourself with good people and know those are the only two things you can control -- that's something I would tell young athletes.

#YouShouldKnow is a feature that showcases rising talents. To see more past interviews, including more Ali Krieger exclusives, click here.

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