Kate Zarkewicz basically grew up with Girls on the Run NJ East. She joined as a 3rd grader in Fanwood, completed nine seasons between GOTR and Heart & Sole, and is now giving back as a Junior Coach—a role she dreamed about for years.

“I did the program as a participant 9 times from 3rd to 8th grade,” she says. “Being involved in Girls on the Run for that long has had a positive impact on my life.”

Now a high school sophomore, Kate brings her experience and heart to every practice—cheering girls on, running laps with them, and showing up as the kind of role model her younger self once looked up to. “I wanted to inspire young girls the same way my past coaches were able to inspire me.”

One memory that’s stuck with her? A 4th grade practice 5K where her team noticed a girl still running. “All of us decided—without the coaches saying anything—to run those last laps with her. It reminds me how we used teamwork and our star power to help someone in need.”

Outside of GOTR, Kate is a singer, songwriter, and active member of three school choirs—but she says lessons from the program show up in every part of her life, from goal-setting to being a leader in her community.

Thinking of becoming a Junior Coach? It’s a great way for high school students to build confidence, give back, and make a difference—just like Kate.

Happy 25th anniversary, GOTR NJ East? And thank you, Kate, for growing up GOTR and continuing to shine! 💛