Meet Melissa! This bold and brave former Girls on the Run coach reminds us that it’s never too late to pick up new skills, explore a new hobby (like running!), and bet on yourself – even if it requires trekking through unfamiliar territory. Learn more about Melissa’s Girls on the Run volunteer experience and how the lessons and girls inspired her — a once self-declared “non-runner” — to take on new physical activities and goals, including completing marathons and incorporating running into her daily life!
When Melissa Brott, a preschool teacher from Essex, Vermont, first stepped into the role of a Girls on the Run coach, she didn’t see herself as someone who could lead an afterschool program with “Run” in the title. While she long admired others who made running look fun and effortless, it always felt out of reach for her. However, after learning more about the broader aspects of Girls on the Run, she discovered that the program’s intentional curriculum was so much more than stretching and lap goals. As an educator, the welcoming environment was another place where she could use her voice and share her passion for youth empowerment. It was also the perfect opportunity for Melissa to lead physical activities that would challenge her to step outside her comfort zone.
Ultimately, the part of the program that intimidated her the most — running — transformed her life more than she ever expected.
For nine years, Melissa witnessed countless girls discover their power, courage, and resilience through the joy of movement — and in the process, she unlocked those strengths within herself. Since completing her first 5K as a Girls on the Run coach in 2011, Melissa has coached alongside her daughter and completed marathons, a Half Ironman, and even ultramarathons on the trails. Through it all, Melissa credits GOTR with teaching her that the real accomplishment isn’t measured in distances and finish lines, but instead, found in self-belief and the power of trekking through the unknown with your head held high.
In this Q&A, Melissa shares how coaching inspired a new, life-enhancing hobby, how the GOTR lessons nurture her mental wellness, and why she encourages others to take a chance on new experiences such as joining the GOTR community!
Before Girls on the Run, how did you feel about running, teamwork, and nurturing your mental health? How did the program change that?
“Before coaching GOTR, I never considered myself a runner, but Nancy Heydinger at GOTR Vermont reassured me that even non-runners could make great coaches. She was right. My first season of coaching, I watched girls transform — some from walkers to runners — and I was inspired to do the same. By May 2011, I ran my first 5K alongside my 9-year-old daughter and thousands of other GOTR girls. That experience changed everything.”
Coach Melissa and her daughter showing off their medals at the 5K Celebration.
How did Girls on the Run help you feel more confident in yourself on and off the track?
“Seeing the girls grow gave me confidence to push myself, too. The following year, I ran my first half-marathon, finishing with hugs and high fives from my daughter and our GOTR team. From there, I kept saying yes to bigger challenges — marathons, a half Ironman, and eventually trail ultramarathons. Running never became easy for me, but completing distances I never thought possible taught me that I can do hard things. That confidence carried over into so many other areas of my life.”
Coach Melissa taking on a trail ultramarathon with confidence, conviction, and great big smile.
What’s one way the joy of movement has helped you feel stronger — not just physically, but mentally too?
“Whenever I hit a low point in a race, I think about my GOTR girls. For many of them, a 5K feels like a marathon, but they keep going, one step at a time. Remembering their determination helps me keep moving forward. Running has strengthened me not just physically, but mentally. It’s a constant reminder of resilience, perseverance, and the joy that comes from finishing something you once thought impossible.”
Coach Melissa beside a fellow coach as they prepare for a day of fun at a recent GOTR 5K.
What advice would you give to a girl who’s just starting the program and isn’t sure if she can complete a 5K?
“I’d tell her: ‘You can do hard things. Even if it feels scary or impossible at first, just keep putting one foot in front of the other. You’ll be amazed at what you can do. Trust the process, lean on your teammates, and celebrate every step forward. When race day comes, you’ll realize just how strong you are.’”
Nothing but good vibes from Coach Melissa as she nears the finish line at the Vermont Marathon.
In addition to developing a love for running, what is your other greatest takeaway from participating in/coaching Girls on the Run?
“My greatest takeaway is the power of saying ‘yes’ even when you’re unsure if you can succeed. Coaching GOTR from 2011 to 2020 taught me that those are the moments that truly change you. GOTR is so much more than a running program: it builds confidence, resilience, and life skills at the age when girls need it most. Saying ‘yes’ to GOTR was a turning point in my life, and I’ll always be grateful. To anyone considering it — as a coach or a participant — say ‘yes.’ You won’t regret it. GOTR didn’t just change my view of running — it changed my life.”
Inspired by this story? Discover more powerful journeys from Girls on the Run alumni who found confidence, community, and the joy of movement. Visit our Beyond the Finish: A GOTR Alumni Community page to keep reading.
