COACHING COMMITMENT
Coaches are the backbone of the Girls on the Run organization. Volunteer coaching requires a commitment of both time and energy, but it is an extremely rewarding experience as you become an active role model to these young girls.

Each week, our coaches guide a group of girls, 3^rd - 8^th graders, through an easy-to-follow, well researched curriculum that uses active running games to teach healthy lifestyle lessons and train the participants for a non-competitive 5k race at the end of the session. Together, explore topics like body image, media awareness, nutrition, emotional health, and positive communication!

Coaches do not need to be competitive runners, but they do need to possess a positive view of fitness and healthy living. Coaches are also required to attend the end-of-the-season race with the participants to encourage them. It's the most inspiring day of the session for program participants and coaches.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Volunteer coaches must be available during after-school/early evening hours.
• Program sites meet twice a week after school for 1 1/4 hours.
• Coaches are expected to attend every practice.
• Each site has 3 or more coaches - one Head Coach and Assistant Coaches as needed. Coaches share the coaching responsibilities.
• The program is offered twice a year: Fall Session (September to December) and Spring Session (March to June). Each session runs for 10 weeks.
• Head Coaches must be 21 years or older.
• Assistant Coaches must be 16 years or older.
• Coaches are also required to attend a one-day Training Session where they learn the curriculum and the tools they need to be a successful coach.

HEAD COACH
The Head Coach is a volunteer position that leads a team of coaches to facilitate the Girls on the Run curriculum to a group of 8-15 participants. The position works closely with Girls on the Run staff and entails approximately five hours per week for 10 weeks. This includes travel, preparation and meeting time. Head Coaches are required to attend practices two days a week.

ASSISTANT COACH
The Assistant Coach is a volunteer position that works closely with and provides support to the Head Coach to deliver the curriculum and participate in the lessons. Assistant Coaches are required to commit to one consistent day each week for the entire season (although two days is preferred as the participants become attached to the coaches).  The position entails approximately 2 - 5 hours per week.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT COACHING?

• Please carefully review the Head Coach and Assistant Coach volunteer descriptions for more information. View the Head Coach Job Description or the Assistant Coach Job Description.
• Complete an online Volunteer Application or download an application and return it in the mail or fax to 330-665-3424. Download Volunteer Application.

GIRLS ON THE RUN NEEDS JUNIOR COACHES AS WELL...

Learn, Dream, Live, Run… and serve in a leadership position at the same time!

Middle school and high school aged girls have the opportunity to serve as Junior Coaches for GOTR teams. The job is fun and challenging. Junior Coaches assist coaches in all activities and exemplify the Girls on the Run attitude! They serve as a leader and a model for younger girls in everything that they do.  

JUNIOR COACH RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Must be 7th – 12th grade student
• Serve as role model for girls and believe in the mission of Girls on the Run
• Completion of Coaches' Training (optional)
• Encourage and cheer for all participants
• Participate in discussions, games and workouts with the girls
• Participate in the end of season 5K run/walk
• Develop leadership skills by assisting the coaches
• Be real self with girls at all times, and above all – have fun!

Click here for a Junior Coach Application/Confirmation of Commitment