Their Words. Our Why

"The THRiVE Youth Running Camp was such a gift! Almost embarrassed to say I took notes during Coach Weller’s speech he made to the kids before he passed out their certificates — he had such great advice for them that applies at any age or stage “Thrive in uncomfortable situations” and be excited that it means you are growing and improving. 

Thank you for offering this week - G loved it and can’t wait for the next one!"

  "We’ve told you (Coach Weller) countless times all you mean to us, how much you have impacted our children for the good, and you mean everything to us. Thank you for EVERY SECOND of love, caring, coaching, teaching, guiding, pushing, & ALL the life lessons you have poured into ALL our kids that you loved as your own from DAY 1. " 

 "I am so glad that my children got to benefit from your amazing leadership and instruction. When L met you in 8th grade she was truly lost and having you as a coach helped give her direction and has contributed so much to the wonderful young lady she is becoming " 

 Coach Weller's own personal work ethic and high expectations for himself have earned him the respect of his athletes; he instills confidence and makes them believe in their own talent and potential. I know all of this because I have witnessed it first-hand with my own son who, unlike many other kids his age, has found his niche in the sports world solely in running. Part of why he has fallen in love with and excelled in cross country is because of Coach Weller, his style of coaching, and the uplifting team culture he has helped create.  

   My son, Jack, ran cross country this year for the first time.  It had nothing to do with running and everything to do with Coach Weller. Jack actually doesn't love running. Yet he not only ran cross country but when he finished cross country, he was already looking forward to track.  His reason for sticking with it: Coach Weller.    Coach Weller knows how to motivate, encourage, and coach kids; to push them to be respectful, helpful, and hard workers both on and off the trails. 

 Coach Weller is one of those rare leaders who cuts through excuses and self-doubt and helps kids believe in themselves. He doesn’t just coach athletes—he builds people. He challenges them to work hard, stay accountable, and grow in character. Under Coach Weller’s guidance, my son has become a stronger, faster, more knowledgeable runner. But what matters more is the growth I’ve seen in his confidence, resilience, and leadership. He’s learned that winning feels good—but working together for a win feels even better. And when things don’t go your way, you don’t give up—you get back to work.