When Addison Diem and Hannah Smith joined forces at Charles and Anna Booker Elementary School, they never imagined they’d be making Girls on the Run history—launching the first GOTR team in Plainfield in nearly 10 years.
Both women had once laced up their sneakers as Girls on the Run participants—but in different towns and different seasons. Years later, they found themselves working together at the same elementary school: Addison as a 5th-grade teacher, and Hannah as the school social worker.
A shared passion for empowering girls quickly sparked a friendship—and an idea. “We realized we both had been part of GOTR when we were younger,” Addison says. “It felt like fate! We knew we wanted to bring that same experience to our students.”
That idea grew into something remarkable: bringing Girls on the Run back to Plainfield after nearly a decade.
“My younger self inspired me,” Hannah reflects. “I remember how much I loved being part of GOTR—learning, running, and building friendships. Now I get to help girls discover those same strengths in themselves.”
Addison echoes that sentiment. “I wanted to bring GOTR to the school where I teach so my students could experience what I did. It’s amazing to see them grow more confident and use the skills they learn outside of practice.”
For both coaches, the most rewarding part is watching their girls apply GOTR lessons in real life. “It’s powerful to see them navigate challenges with kindness and courage,” says Hannah. “You can tell they’re carrying their GOTR skills into everyday situations.”
Addison agrees. “The transformation is incredible—watching girls gain confidence, support each other, and celebrate who they are. It’s why we do this.”
Their bond as alumnae and colleagues makes the team dynamic even stronger. “We both remember running our 5Ks and collecting lap bracelets,” Addison laughs. “Now we get to see that same joy on our girls’ faces at the end of each season.”
As they look to the future, both coaches share the same hope: that more schools will have the opportunity to bring GOTR to their students. “Every girl deserves this experience,” says Addison. “The lessons stay with you for life.”