Coach

Girls on the Run coaches are trained volunteers who lead a team of participants through a season of powerful and fun lessons. You do not need to be a runner; you simply need to have a desire to support and encourage the next generation. Coaches receive all the tools and support they need and find that they get as much out of coaching as they give.

Two smiling Girls on the Run coaches holding participant

Girls on the run coach holding sign reading intuitive

Smiling Girls on the Run coach and participant

coach quote

“Being a coach has impacted me in a positive way. I feel more empowered and confident. All the lessons are lessons that even we as adults can learn from. I love the program.”

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Requirements

You must be at least 18 years of age.
Complete our Coach Application.
Consent to and complete a background check.
Complete all GOTR Coach Training prior to the start of the season. (All training provided and paid for by GOTR)
- GOTR National Coach Training (blended online/in-person model)
- CPR/First Aid Certification (blended online/in-person model)
- Online Michigan Sports Concussion Training
Have availability to attend practices two times per week after school for 90 minutes.

Responsibilities

Review, prepare and co-lead weekly lessons (curriculum provided by Girls on the Run).
Collaborate with other coaches for successful lesson delivery.
Facilitate communication with parents/guardians of program participants.
Commit for the entire season (practices and end-of-season 5K event).
Have fun while serving as a role model for program participants.

Season Details

New and Returning Coach applications are now open!
Girl registration opens November 1st.
Practice Volunteer Application opens November 1st. Not quite ready to coach? Become a Practice Volunteer to help support coaches during the season.
In-person New Coach Training will be held in February.
2023 Spring Season kicks off the week of March 6th.
Celebratory 5K event will take place on May 20th.
A final celebration and practice for all teams will take place the week of May 22nd.

Help transform and strengthen the next generation

New Coach Application

Returning Coach Application

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A Girls on the Run is smiling at the camera wearing a blue program shirt

"Watching the girls in terms of what they have learned has been really fun this season. I think the best thing they have learned as a group is to have trust in each other and to communicate with each other about how they feel."

Coach Kaylyn

A Girls on the Run coach smiles while holding a program medal at the 5K

"As a coach, I just really realized how important it is to pour into this generation of girls and lift them up."

Coach Shayla

A Girls on the Run program coach smiles at the camera outdoors.

"It’s the girls’ smiles that inspire and motivate me."

Coach Mo

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are coaches important?

There are girls who need YOU to help them unleash their power and potential. If you are considering coaching, ask yourself: What better gift can you give to the next generation than inspiring confidence and a strong sense of self?

Almost 100% of girls said their Girls on the Run coaches care about them.
99% of coaches agreed that the coaching experience was valuable for them.
96% of coaches said they felt they formed positive relationships with the girls on their team.
94% of Girls on the Run coaches said they felt like they were making a difference in their girls’ lives.

Do I need to be a runner or athlete to be a coach?

No! Girls on the Run provides the training, curriculum and supplies needed to safely lead a team for a season! You simply need to be a motivating role model for your team. Many of our coaches participate in their first 5K alongside their team!

Are coaches all female?

We welcome all adults who are committed to ensuring girls reach their limitless potential!

All coaches must be at least 18 years of age.

Do I need to be CPR certified?

All GOTRGK Coaches must have CPR and First Aid certification on file by the first session of any given season. GOTRGK will provide the training at no cost to you!

I am not affiliated with a school or community center where the program occurs, can I still coach?

Yes! Community coaches are individuals not directly affiliated with a school or community location who support the Girls on the Run mission. Community coaches are placed according to their geographic location and their availability at sites that need additional coaches.

Do I need to come up with lesson plans or workouts?

No! We provide you with training, curriculum and supplies – everything needed to coach a safe, successful season! You should not incur any personal costs to provide the program to your team.

When and how will I get my coaching materials?

Our council provides each program location with the curriculum and supplies needed to facilitate the season. We will coordinate with our site liaisons to pick-up each team's materials before the start of the season.

When and where is coach training?

Coach training includes online self-paced training and an in-person training session. In-person trainings will be offered in February 2023 in Kalamazoo (location TBD). More details to come!

What is the time commitment of coaching?

Coaches must complete all required training prior to the start of the season. During the season, coaches will attend two 90-minute practices per week for 10 weeks. (Allowing an additional 15 minutes prior to practice for setup and 15 minutes after practice for cleanup and girl pick-up). To provide a consistent experience to participants, your commitment is crucial to prepare and collaborate with co-coaches to facilitate fun, successful lessons. Each season culminates with a team-led community impact project and celebratory 5K event.

When and where are practices held?

Schools and times are approved prior to participant registration each season. Practice times are typically Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday after school.

Can I choose where I coach?

Coaches may indicate where they would like to coach during the coach application. If coaches do not have a preference, we will assign them to a location in need.

Can I coach a team with a friend or family member?

Absolutely! The more, the merrier! Each Girls on the Run team is led by two to three trained coaches. If you would like to coach at an existing site with another applicant, please mention this in your application and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Merci d’envisager d’accepter le rôle vital d’animateur bénévole pour Girls on the Run. Si vous avez toujours des questions sur la façon de débloquer le pouvoir et le potentiel des filles de votre communauté, veuillez communiqu

Thanks for considering the vital role of serving as a volunteer coach for Girls on the Run. If you still have questions about how you can unlock the power and potential of girls in your community, please contact us!

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