Q: When did you first join R4R, and how did you learn about us?
A: I was a teacher receiving emails about the youth fitness program when I clicked on the video informing me of Rhett’s story. I had lost a pregnancy and was so inspired by how Beth had transformed her grief from losing a child into this amazing gift of giving back to so many kids. I loved what running did for me in my life and found the youth fitness program as a way to share running with my students. I applied and was approved to become a coach in the Fall of 2017!
Q: As a teacher and Runnin’ for Rhett Youth Fitness coach, what do you enjoy most about working with kids?
A: I enjoy seeing improvements and accomplishments among the students in races and practices. These accomplishments help them build overall self-identity and self-esteem.
Q: You recently completed your first triathlon. What inspired you to take on this goal, and what was your biggest takeaway from the experience?
A: Watching kids continue to grow is infectious. I wanted to grow and hit my own goals. I had a dream of completing an Ironman and knew the fuel from my students and the Runnin’ for Rhett community created an environment for me to take on this dream!
Q: What has been your most unusual or interesting job?
A: Nothing unusual, but the most interesting job I had was working at Big 5 Sporting Goods. I had to learn so much about hunting, fishing, and outdoor sports. The opportunities to be active outdoors changed how I saw my own life. I was able to see that living an active life was more than playing organized team sports.
Q: How do you like to spend your free time? Any hobbies of note?
A: I call myself a “jack of all trades, master of none”. I like doing everything, and I jump around and learn a little bit of everything. My friends laugh at the journey I have had in my last few years: cookie decorating, gardening, survival training, woodworking, and now a triathlon!
Q: What’s something most people don’t know about you?
A: I feel like an introvert most days. I am loud, enthusiastic, and never afraid of new crowds, but I get my energy from reading and daydreaming alone most weekends.
Q: What has been your proudest moment since being a part of the R4R family?
A: Watching my student runners go on to participate in high school cross country, cross-fit competitions, and stay active when they become my followers on Strava!
Q: If you were a vegetable, what would you be and why?
A: A pickle, not really a vegetable, but cucumbers are still in most salads. Plus, dill is a unique flavor just like me.
Q: How would you describe your Runnin’ for Rhett experience to a child?
A: I get to spend time out of class laughing and moving. My two favorite things! You have a chance to grow and get better at moving at just the pace you want. Unlike tests, there are no levels you have to get to with the pressure of “being as good as everyone else.” You start where you are that day, year, or race. You end up exactly where your effort leaves you. Some days you work hard, train fast, and you see big improvements. On other days, you show up with just a slow walk and enjoy the flow of just being present and with others. Either way, each step means something to you, your teammates, or your coach. Just being you is enough in running.
