KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – With an expected dramatic jump in participants this year, officials with Girls on the Run of Greater Kalamazoo say they are desperately seeking coaches for their 22nd season.
Nearly 1,200 girls from approximately 50 area schools are expected to register for the 10-week program, a 38% increase in attendance compared to last year. Running coaches are needed at many elementary schools, including Arcadia, El Sol, Gull Lake, East Leroy, Hamilton, King Westwood, Mattawan, Milwood, Moorsbridge, Northeastern, Oakland Academy, Parchment Charter Academy, Parkwood, Tobey, Woodland, Climax-Scotts, and Woods Lake.
Girls on the Run of Greater Kalamazoo says trained volunteer coaches facilitate lessons that blend physical activity with life skill development including managing emotions, fostering friendships, and expressing empathy. Coaches do not need to be runners and receive all the tools and support they need from the program.
“We could not do this without our coaches,” GOTRGK Executive Director Katherine Kemp said. “They are the backbone of this program, responsible for teaching our girls skills that will last them a lifetime.”
Coaches meet with teams twice a week after school for 90 minutes from early March through late May. Prior to these practices, coaches will complete a blended online and in-person coaches training, and become certified in CPR and First Aid, all paid for by GOTRGK.
The program culminates with all teams participating in a noncompetitive 5K event held Saturday, May 18 on the Kalamazoo Valley Community College campus.
The GOTRGK spring 2024 coaching application deadline is 5:00 p.m. Thursday, February 22. For more information, visit www.girlsontherunkazoo.org/coach or call (269)532-1220.
Comments