Spring 2026 was our biggest season yet and we couldn’t have done it without our incredible community of dedicated coaches! Nearly 900 dedicated volunteers brought this season to life - and did so with heart and spirit. 

Nominated by their co-coaches, each season we recognize coaches and teams who have gone above and beyond. We’re so excited to introduce just a few of our inspiring coaches and coaching teams!

Bold Heart Award

Congratulations to Teresa Angier from Park Spanish Immersion and Jennifer Kafka from Blue Earth Elementary! 

This award is presented to coaches who truly embody what it means to lead with a Bold Heart. These coaches create space for others to share openly, listen with care and courage, and model the power of being a bold, compassionate listener. Like a sparkling Heart Bottle, they bring light, encouragement, and joy to every practice — lifting up the Bold Hearts of everyone around them. Here's what Teresa's and Jennifer's co-coaches said about them!

"Over multiple seasons, Coach Teresa has been a constant source of support, encouragement, and joy for every girl on her team. Whether holding a runner’s hand until she felt confident again or helping a participant work through disappointment, Coach Teresa always meets girls where they are and helps them grow. She shows up in countless big and small ways each season, and the team is better because of her." 

"Coach Jennifer brought Girls on the Run to her community (for the first time ever!) and worked tirelessly to ensure every participant and caregiver felt welcomed, included, and supported. From advocating for translated materials to helping families register for the 5K Celebration, Coach Jennifer went above and beyond to create an accessible and meaningful experience for everyone involved."

Coach Teresa Angier (left).

Coach Jennifer Kafka (right).

Brittany Boegel Award for Open-Hearted Leadership

We’re so excited to honor Amina Smaller from Brooklyn Center Middle School! Given to one Heart & Sole coach, this award is in honor and memory of Brittany Boegel, a beloved coach, teacher and friend who died in a hiking accident in Alaska in July 2018. She started the Heart & Sole team at Venture Academy in Minneapolis in 2016 and was dedicated to supporting girls from all backgrounds.

Here's what Coach Amina's co-coaches wrote in their nomination:

"Coach Amina’s long-standing commitment and enthusiasm has helped create a positive and impactful experience for every participant on her Heart & Sole team. As both a coach and site liaison, she brings a deep understanding of her community’s needs, builds strong relationships with participants and families, and fosters a dedicated coaching team that returns season after season. Through her welcoming spirit, creativity, and years of service, Coach Amina has played an important role in the growth and success of her site’s program."

Coach Amina Smaller.

Rock What You Got Award

The Rock What You Got Award is awarded to one team each season that demonstrates creativity, teamwork and shared commitment in planning and executing the season’s programming with resilience and passion. Congratulations to Randolph Heights Elementary!

This coaching team brought incredible energy, creativity, and dedication to launching a successful first season. In just a few short weeks, they built a full team, completed training, and created a positive experience for participants despite limited space and logistical challenges. Their flexibility, teamwork, and commitment helped make the season unforgettable for the girls and families they served. 

Coaches and participants from Randolph Heights.

Could you be our next award-winner?

Wanna get in on the fun? Bring GOTR MN to your community! Learn more about starting a team or register to coach for the fall 2026 season. You do not need to be a runner; you simply need to have a desire to support and encourage the next generation!