Fiona Laddey first laced up her sneakers with Girls on the Run in third grade at Grover Cleveland Park in Essex County. What began as a fun introduction to movement and confidence would become a full-circle journey that helped shape the young woman she is today.
Now a recent graduate of James Caldwell High School and a six-season Junior Coach, Fiona reflects on the program that helped her find her voice—and inspired her to give back.
“GOTR was such a significant part of my upbringing, so being able to volunteer as a high schooler was a full-circle moment. It reinforced the importance of collaboration and showing girls what they can achieve if they believe in themselves.”
Fiona’s impact as a coach extended beyond practices and 5Ks. She was invited to speak at her middle school’s “Make a Difference Day” in memory of her late principal—sharing her story and encouraging students to get involved in their communities. It was a powerful reminder of the ripple effect of GOTR.
One of the GOTR core values Fiona most exemplifies is “embracing differences and finding strength in connection.” In 2021, she joined the global pen pal community—and discovered a new world of friendship and understanding. Today, she still writes letters to friends across the globe, including Savana, a pen pal turned best friend from Minneapolis.
“We’ve been exchanging letters for four years,” Fiona shares. “Meeting her in person last fall was incredible, but even apart, we’ve stayed close through our letters. Pen palling has made me more thoughtful and engaged with the world around me.”
Another GOTR value she’s embraced is nurturing her physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Fiona has found peace and clarity through yoga—a new passion that helps her manage stress and connect with her mind and body.
“I never really played team sports growing up because I was intimidated and insecure. My experience with GOTR made me confident enough to run track in middle school and join the tennis team in high school.GOTR taught me that sports are about self-determination, growth, and joy. That first 5K finish line? It’s a core memory I’ll always treasure.”
As Fiona prepares to begin her next chapter at the University of Vermont, she carries with her the confidence, compassion, and connection that Girls on the Run helped ignite.
Fiona, thank you for sharing your heart, your leadership, and your sparkle with the GOTR community. You are the definition of limitless potential.