Successful implementation of the Girls on the Run program requires identifying, screening and training a minimum of 2 volunteer coaches for each Girls on the Run team. 3 coaches are strongly recommended, and may be required based on coach availability. All teams will remain pending until at least 2-3 volunteer coaches have been identified and approved for each team. Our office assists sites in recruiting coaches from our pool of community and college student volunteers.

New coaches must submit a volunteer application, complete an online background check, and attend an in-person (2.5 hour) and online (2 hour) training session. At least one coach must be CPR & First Aid certified - training is provided by GOTR Columbia. Each team is required to have one head coach that will attend both practices weekly. At least two coaches must be present at EVERY practice for teams of 15 girls (3 coaches at every practice for elementary school teams of 20 girls). Each team is required to have one head coach that will attend both practices weekly. The head coach must be female. Assistant Coaches may be male. Coaching candidates are subject to screening and approval by Girls on the Run prior to final selection.

A coach job description is available at GOTRcolumbia.org.

GOTR Columbia Site Registration 2026-2027