As a young girl, Angel Harris participated in Girls on the Run at Magnolia Woods Elementary, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This school year, Angel is serving as a Coach for the Girls on the Run team at Villa Del Rey Magnet School.
Angel says, "Participating in Girls on the Run as a child was a really empowering experience. I learned how to be more confident, how to set goals, and how to work as a team with other girls my age. The lessons about, friendship, physical and mental wellbeing really stuck with me. It made me realize that being active could be fun. Finishing the 5K at the end made me feel so proud, I remember thinking, ‘Wow, I actually did that!’
During the fall 2024 and spring 2025 seasons, 22 girls have participated in the Girls on the Run program at Villa Del Rey Magnet School. Angel and her fellow coaches meet with the team of girls for 90 minutes, twice a week for the 10-week season.
"What I enjoy most about serving as a Girls on the Run coach is watching the girls grow, not just in their physical strength, but in their confidence and how they treat themselves and each other. It’s so rewarding to be part of those ‘aha’ moments when a lesson clicks or when a girl realizes she’s capable of more than she thought. I love creating a positive, encouraging space where every girl feels seen and supported. And honestly, their energy and joy are contagious, it inspires me just as much as I hope to inspire them."
Want to be a lasting role model and empower the next generation of girls in your community? Become a coach for Girls on the Run for the fall 2025 10-week program. Sign up today!
P.S. Are you also a Girls on the Run alum? Beyond the Finish, the GOTR Alumni Community is a place for past participants, coaches, and staff and board members across the U.S. and Canada to connect with others who share a passion for our mission. Whether you’re looking to reignite friendships, pursue personal or professional development, support your physical activity goals, or help your local council, this community is for you! Join here and receive a special welcome gift.