Become a Marathon High Coach

Side by Side. Mile by Mile. Changing Lives Together.

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You don't have to be an elite runner to be an exceptional coach. The greatest qualification is believing in a student's potential before they believe in themselves.

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Every Marathon High student has the potential to accomplish something extraordinary. Our volunteer coaches help them discover it.

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Whether you're a teacher, school staff member, parent, or community runner, you don't need to be an experienced marathoner to make a lasting impact. What matters most is your willingness to encourage, mentor, and believe in young people.

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Each Marathon High team is supported by a Head Coach, Assistant Coach(es), and volunteer Running Buddies, creating a positive, encouraging environment where every student can succeed.

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Who Makes a Great Coach?

We're looking for volunteers who are:

• ✔ At least 21 years of age

• ✔ Positive, dependable, and encouraging

• ✔ Passionate about mentoring high school students

• ✔ Able to attend practices and Saturday runs throughout the season

• ✔ Comfortable maintaining approximately a 14-minute-per-mile pace

• ✔ Willing to complete required coach training

• ✔ Able to complete a background check (if required)

• ✔ Committed to supporting students from the first practice through race day

You don't have to be the fastest runner—you simply have to believe in helping students become their best.

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Season 16 Coach Training

To prepare coaches for a successful season, all new coaches are asked to attend one of the following training sessions:

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Saturday, August 29th
8:30–10:30 a.m.
Winston Family YMCA

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Thursday, September 17th
4:30–6:30 p.m.
Winston Family YMCA

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Coach training covers the Marathon High program, the Jeff Galloway Run-Walk-Run® method, student safety, season expectations, and best practices for creating a positive and supportive team environment.

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What Marathon High Provides

We equip every coach with the resources needed for a successful season, including:

• Coach orientation and training

• A structured 16-week training plan using the Jeff Galloway Run-Walk-Run® method

• Ongoing guidance and support from Marathon High staff

• Team shirts and coaching resources

• Race registration for the season-ending half marathon

• Access to training materials and program equipment

• A rewarding volunteer experience alongside an incredible team of coaches

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Time Commitment

Coaches commit to supporting their team throughout the 16-week season.

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Typical weekly schedule:

• Tuesdays & Thursdays: Approximately one-hour after-school practices

• Saturdays: Long runs (typically 1–3 hours as mileage gradually increases)

• Participation in Marathon High All-School Runs, select community races, and the season-ending half marathon

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Our coaches run with students during practices and race events because no student should ever have to train—or cross the finish line—alone.

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Why Coach?

The miles are rewarding—but the relationships are unforgettable.

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As a Marathon High coach, you'll help students:

• Build confidence and resilience

• Develop lifelong healthy habits

• Set and achieve ambitious goals

• Experience the pride of completing a half marathon

• Discover they're capable of more than they ever imagined

Many coaches tell us that Marathon High changes their lives just as much as it changes the lives of the students they mentor.

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Ready to Make a Difference?

Join a community of dedicated volunteers who are empowering the next generation—one mile at a time. Get Registered Here!

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Questions? We'd love to hear from you! Contact us to learn more about becoming a Marathon High coach.

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Please note: Completing a coach application does not guarantee placement. Non-school employees are matched with schools based on program needs, availability, and location.