Close your eyes and picture a Girls on the Run coach. It’s easy to assume we’re all picturing the same type of person: someone who loves running, maybe they’re a teacher or have a child in the program, and super outgoing, right?
Not so fast!
Girls on the Run coaches don’t all look the same or have the same background. They all have one important thing in common: a passion for supporting girls.
Are you considering becoming a Girls on the Run coach, but not sure if it’s a good fit for you? Take this quick quiz to find out!
1. When you hear “coach,” what comes to mind?
A. Someone cheering from the sidelines
B. Someone helping kids grow
C. Someone teaching life lessons
D. Someone running laps
GOTR Coach Answer: Trick question! All of the above are correct. A GOTR coach has many roles throughout the season, but at the core of all these responses is someone who is excited to show up and support their team!
2. Your relationship with running is…
A. I run regularly.
B. I walk, hike, or stay active in other ways.
C. I only run when I’m late.
D. Running isn’t really my thing.
GOTR Coach Answer: Every answer works! Coaches don’t need to be runners. They simply guide girls through lessons and encourage them to move at their own happy pace.
3. Which best describes you?
A. Parent or caregiver
B. Teacher or school staff
C. College student or young professional
D. Retiree
E. Community volunteer
F. None of these
GOTR Coach Answer: Our coaches come from every background imaginable! As long as you’re over the age of 18 (or 16 for our Junior Coaches), this role is for you.
4. A girl says, “I don’t think I can do this.” Your first instinct is to…
A. Encourage her to keep trying.
B. Remind her how far she’s already come.
C. Ask what support she needs.
D. Celebrate small wins along the way.
GOTR Coach Answer: You can’t go wrong here! Each of these responses shows encouragement and empathy, two qualities that can make a meaningful difference in a girl’s life.
5. How much time can you commit?
A. About 90 minutes, twice a week during the season.
B. I’d need to check my schedule, but it sounds possible.
C. I’m not sure yet.
GOTR Coach Answer: This is the biggest practical requirement. Every team has its own meeting day and time, so prospective coaches can connect with their local council to explore opportunities that may work with their schedules.
6. What motivates you most?
A. Helping girls build confidence.
B. Giving back to my community.
C. Being a positive role model.
D. Making a lasting difference.
GOTR Coach Answer: These are exactly the qualities that make great coaches.
7. Which statement sounds most like you?
A. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m willing to learn.
B. I enjoy encouraging others.
C. I believe every girl deserves someone in her corner.
D. All of the above.
GOTR Coach Answer: D! All of these answers sound like someone who is ready to put their coaching hat on.
Your Results
Good news: No matter how you answered, you already have what it takes!
Girls on the Run coaches aren’t one-size-fits-all. They’re teachers and accountants, nurses and retirees, parents and neighbors, runners and non-runners alike. If you’re willing to commit your time and encourage girls to believe in themselves, you could be exactly the coach a team is waiting for.
If this quiz surprised you, you’re not alone. Every season, people discover they’re exactly the kind of coach Girls on the Run is looking for. Whether you’re a runner, a walker, a parent, a professional, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, there’s a place for you on a Girls on the Run team.
Find your local council and learn how you can become a coach this season.
