At First Avenue School in Newark, coaching duo Sabrina Edmonds and Alyssa Pierce have been the steady heartbeat of their Girls on the Run and Heart & Sole teams. What began during the uncertainty of the pandemic—when Zoom calls and neighborhood runs replaced in-person practices—has blossomed into a lasting partnership that has shaped not only their participants but also their own friendship.
Sabrina, an 8th grade science teacher, mom of two boys, and middle school girls’ basketball coach, first brought the idea of coaching to Alyssa. With Sabrina’s background in social-emotional learning and Alyssa’s expertise in running and fitness, the two realized they had built something special: a true balancing act of mind and body.
“We are a wellness-performance balancing act. Alyssa brings the running and exercise experience to the team and I bring the social-emotional background. Together we have grown to be great mentors for the past five years,” says Sabrina.
For Alyssa, a 7th and 8th grade Language Arts teacher, debate coach, and part-time lecturer, coaching with Sabrina has been just as rewarding:
“Sabrina first approached me about coaching during the pandemic. She knew I had the running experience, while she had the social-emotional background. We had just been coworkers then, but because of GOTR, we’ve become good friends. We just balance each other out.”
The impact of their partnership shows in the growth of their girls. Both coaches light up when talking about participants who began the program unsure of themselves, only to blossom in confidence and form lasting friendships. They’ve also seen many girls continue running in high school on track and cross-country teams—or even return as Junior Coaches.
“We’ve had several girls throughout the years begin the program feeling as though they didn’t fit in anywhere,” says Alyssa. “Seeing them grow and gain confidence throughout the season and form genuine friendships with their teammates is always amazing to watch.”
As Girls on the Run NJ East launches another fall season, Sabrina and Alyssa’s story is a reminder of the power of coaching teams—how two people with different strengths can create a safe, supportive, and joyful environment for girls to thrive. Their journey also reflects what’s ahead for the new coaches joining this fall: a chance to impact lives, build friendships, and grow alongside the girls they mentor.
Because at Girls on the Run, coaching is more than volunteering—it’s shaping the next generation of joyful, healthy, and confident young women.
Want to be part of the story?
This fall, dozens of new coaches are joining the GOTR NJ East family, bringing their energy, talents, and heart to the teams starting across six counties. Just like Sabrina and Alyssa, every coach makes a difference—not only for the girls, but also for themselves. Learn more and sign up to coach at www.girlsontherunnj.org/coach.