Each Girls on the Run season, caring, trained coaches lead girls through our research-based curriculum that helps girls build confidence, develop vital skills, and foster friendships. Their generosity, kindness, and encouragement bring our mission to life and make our afterschool program possible. Learn more about several returning coaches and why coaching has become a bright spot in their lives. 

One season of Girls on the Run is all it takes for some volunteer coaches to open a new door of purpose. Many GOTR coaches start with a desire to give back, stay active, and make a difference in the next generation. After leading their first few lessons, coaches often find the experience much deeper and more eye-opening than expected. What began as a goal to empower girls frequently becomes a source of empowerment for the coaches themselves. With each passing practice, coaches continue to discover why this community is for them and why our programs are essential for today’s girls.  

Hearing girls share their ideas highlights the importance of a safe, judgment-free space where their voices matter, while watching new friends connect shows why belonging is essential. Seeing girls discover they can do hard things reminds us of the power of learning skills that build confidence.

These moments aren’t just heartwarming for GOTR coaches; they are transformative and stick with them long after practice concludes.  

Ask most coaches, and they’ll agree it’s hard not to smile on your way home from practice. Reflecting on the laughter shared, the support offered, and the lessons taught has its own share of benefits outside of the initial sense of warmth. It inspires coaches to set new goals, nurture their mental health needs, embrace the joy of movement, and love what makes them, them. A recent external study confirmed that just as girls build confidence and skills during the season, coaches also reap many personal and professional benefits! 

In this blog, we are thrilled to spotlight 14 returning coaches and their “whys” for continuing to lead Girls on the Run teams in their communities. Season after season, they show up with compassion and enthusiasm, creating welcoming environments where girls can thrive. Because of their commitment, 5K finish line dreams become realities. Their willingness to return repeatedly is a powerful reminder of the program’s impact on the girls and the adults who cheer them on.