When I first started running, I didn’t see many coaches who looked like me. I wasn’t sure if it was just the circles I was in or if the issue ran deeper. As I became more involved in coaching, the reality became clear—there’s a serious lack of Indigenous representation in run coaching, and even fewer who also specialize in strength training.
It’s not that Indigenous people aren’t passionate about running. In fact, running has been woven into our cultures for generations. It’s a tradition, a form of storytelling, a way to connect with the land. But in the structured world of endurance sports—training plans, certification programs, coaching networks—Indigenous voices have been largely left out.
It’s easy to say that running is an inclusive sport. Just lace up and go, right? But when athletes look for guidance, for training, for someone who understands their lived experiences, they often don’t find coaches who reflect their identities. That absence sends a message. Whether intentional or not, it tells Indigenous athletes that coaching isn’t a space where they belong. And that’s simply not true.
I became a coach because I wanted to be the resource I never had. I earned certifications in both running and strength training to provide holistic support for athletes. I joined the board of ReNew Earth Running because representation isn’t just about being visible—it’s about taking action to create spaces where Indigenous runners and athletes thrive.
Diversity in coaching matters. It changes who gets access to quality training. It shifts the culture of the sport. It opens doors for new voices, fresh perspectives, and stronger communities. And right now, the door isn’t open wide enough.
I want to change that.
If you’re an Indigenous athlete looking for guidance, I’m here. If you’ve ever thought about becoming a coach but didn’t know where to start, let’s talk. If you’re someone who believes endurance sports should reflect the diversity of the people who run them, then let’s work together to make it happen.
Representation isn’t just about seeing someone like you. It’s about knowing there’s a place for you. And I’m here to make sure that space exists.