Gabriela’s journey with Girls on the Run began in 2012 as a running buddy. She ran alongside the girls, offering them encouragement and support during their practice sessions. Her dedication and enthusiasm quickly made her an integral part of the community. In 2017, Gabriela officially became a coach following an invitation from her friend.
Gabriella said, “Of course! I would love to be a part of the coaching team.”
Since stepping into her coaching role, Gabriela has been deeply committed to the Girls on the Run program. She shares that she’s seen incredible transformations in the girls she coaches, from shy and reserved to confident and outspoken. One of the most rewarding aspects for her has been witnessing how the girls use their newfound confidence and skills to help others, showing that the impact of the program extends far beyond running.
“The girls are not only remembering the lessons,” Gabriela says. “They are really reflecting about how it's impacting their lives.”
Over the years, Coach Gabriela has seen moments when girls open up about their struggles and use the tools they've learned to navigate their challenges. This personal growth not only changes their lives but also positively influences those around them. Through her years with Girls on the Run, she has embraced the program's evolving curriculum, which focuses on inclusion and empowerment.
“[The inclusivity] is empowering them and makes them think, ‘I can do this!’ and they can do hard things,” Coach Gabriela says.
Watching the program and curriculum evolve over the years, Coach Gabriela has a great appreciation for GOTR’s inclusive approach. She’s witnessed girls of all abilities, even those who initially doubted their physical capabilities, achieve incredible milestones. The program’s emphasis on inclusion has ensured that every girl feels valued and capable, which has been a source of immense pride and joy for Gabriela.
“We had our 5K practice, and you can tell some of my girls thought they couldn’t do it, it’s their first time ever doing a 5k,” Gabriela says. “They thought it was going to be hard for them, but seeing their faces and hearing them say, ‘I did it, I made it!’ is so, so powerful.”
Coach Gabriela believes in the power of sharing experience, and when she looks at the future for GOTR she hopes to inspire more schools to join the movement. She dreams of expanding the program's reach, so more girls can experience the transformative power of Girls on the Run.
We are incredibly grateful for Coach Gabriela’s ongoing support and leadership. Together, we go further. Find your place with Girls on the Run as a coach and impact the youth in your community. Volunteer coach registration is open for the spring 2025 season and you are needed!
