Top 5 Reasons Why Brandi Chastain Is A Kick Butt Role Model

Santa Clara University alum and soccer legend, Brandi Chastain is this year's 2014 undergraduate commencement speaker and we couldn't be more psyched! This year marks 50 years since women joined SCU athletics and Brandi's a big part of that legacy. Here's 5 reasons why we think she's so great. #SCUgrad

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1. She was part of a phenomenal team that forever changed Women's Soccer in the United States

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In 1999 she scored the goal that won the Women's World Cup for the United States. Perhaps you recognize this powerful and iconic image.

2. She's got bling!

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Chastain won a gold medal in the 1996 Olympic games, a silver medal in 2000, and a gold medal in the 2004 games.

3. She gives back to her community

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Brandi has returned to her alma mater, Santa Clara University, to be an assistant coach for the women's soccer team. She also is an active mentor to Bay Area kids who play soccer.

4. She's got skills on and off the soccer field

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Brandi was a contestant a special Sports Stars episode of the Food Network hit show, Chopped, and won all 3 rounds (she deep fried alligator meat!) The 50,000 dollars she won went towards her charity.

5. She's all about female empowerment

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Brandi co-founded The Bay Area Women's Sport Initiative (BAWSI) which is a nonprofit corporation that encourages young female athletes to use their power to make a difference in the world by mentoring young girls and inspiring them to be healthy.