Champions Of Change: Katie Rood
Footballer, activist, and HIA’s #174—Katie Rood brings grit, heart, and purpose to all that she does.
She’s gone from leading the line for both club and country to raising her voice on what matters most, Katie has long used her platform to push for equity, animal rights, and a more just world. With a professional career spanning New Zealand, the UK, and beyond—her commitment to impact doesn’t just end when the final whistle blows. She’s a proud vegan, a voice for the climate, and a firm believer in football as a force for good.
We’re stoked to be able to shine a light on Katie’s journey as she helps drive the change to a sporting world that plays for more than just a win.
Hey Katie.
Hey Marcus.
What advice would you give your younger self when you started your career?
Building community is the most important thing you can do. Sport doesn't always go the way we hope it will and having good people around to lean on and support or guide you through tough times is vital.
What’s something you wish more people understood about the life of a pro athlete?
In the women's game the word 'Pro' doesn't always add up, unless you're at the very top of the game. The expectations on players are that of a professional but the pay, resources and experience of staff are often nowhere near the level they need to be to support the players in reaching their potential.
How do you mentally reset after a tough loss?
I love spending a recovery day in the natural world. A dip in the ocean or a walk in the wild helps ground me and remind me that there's so much beauty to experience in the world and the result isn't so important in the grand scheme of things. I find little challenges to help move/stretch my body too - stepping over or ducking under branches, finding beautiful places to stretch, balancing on a log or stone etc.
The best piece of advice you've ever received?
Follow your curiosity. Not everything in life needs a plan. Sometimes the best action is to do what you love or what interests you and opportunities will flow.
What is the most unexpected lesson your sport has taught you about life?
Sport has the power to change the world. It shapes people and communities and culture like little else does. Athletes are revered, clubs are worshipped, national teams are celebrated. Imagine if that collective energy was, through sport, also invested in improving the lives of the surrounding community and doing then best to take care of the environments we play in.
Has there been a fan interaction or message that’s left a lasting impact on you?
I've had a few over the years to say that they've adopted veganism and it's changed their lives for the better. It's always rewarding to know you can have a positive impact on others just by sharing parts of your experience.
How has competing in different countries and cultures impacted you as a person?
Navigating different cultures is a beautiful and often challenging experience. It's given me an immense sense of gratitude for where I've grown up and the place I call home, Aotearoa.
What personal cause or issue are you most passionate about outside of your sport, and why?
Protecting Nature. I've been shocked with how much devastation and destruction of the natural world we humans have contributed to. Industrial animal agriculture is one of the biggest drivers of this destruction. We have the most beautiful and diverse eco-systems that we know of in the entire universe, yet we exploit and destroy them for a quick profit. I think there's huge scope to change the way we operate, to work with nature, not against her. That can start with individuals and which organisations we spend our money with.
Big thanks for sharing your voice with the HIA community, Katie. We’re lucky to have your energy, values, and drive for change in the mix.
To follow Katie @katieroodnz
