Testimonials
“Their hopes and dreams have been channeled into running and I was mesmerized by what the team is achieving.”
– Uta Pippig, three time Boston Marathon Winner
“We have been a STRIVERS family since 2018, when our youngest daughter, Cha Cha, was old enough to join. In Natick, where there are many programs for all ages, this is the one program specifically created for middle school aged girls. I was excited that she would get the opportunity to learn about running, self-care and take part in the amazing community outreach. Over the last few years, STRIVERS instilled more confidence in Cha Cha than I ever imagined. I also get to see that large endorphin-filled smile on her face as she crosses each 5k finish line… something that wouldn’t have been possible without the STRIVERS program!!!”
– Graham Briggs, parent
“I have been looking forward to my daughter being able to join Strivers ever since I heard about it when she was in 2nd grade. When she finally reached the right age, Strivers was not operating due to covid, so I was super bummed. I was very happy when she was able to join this past Spring, and I jumped at the chance to sign her up. Strivers is an amazing program, and I feel very fortunate to have it in Natick. My daughter can’t wait to do it again in the Fall. ”
– Rebecca Potts, parent
“Strivers is so much more than a running club. Yes, the coaches teach fundamentals, but the lessons extend to healthy lifestyles, community, philanthropy, personal achievement and non-competitive team camaraderie. There is a wonderful balance of instruction, challenge and encouragement. At a time in life when poor self esteem is peaking, this program develops confidence in girls by working with them to set achievable goals and celebrates each of their personal successes. In the words of Peter Pan, “The moment you doubt you can fly, you cease for ever to be able to do it.” Strivers teaches girls to fly!”
– Mary McCarthy, parent
“I consider myself blessed to have Strivers Running Club in Natick . Colleen is truly great coach one of those hard to come by. She is full of love and passion about the work she is doing. She trains kids like her own and treats them equally valuable. My daughter has been running with Strivers for two years. It is the only activity my daughter never refused to attend. I was truly impressed by Coach Colleen and Couch Kathy’s support when we missed the 5k run. Thank you for giving my daughter the unexpected gift of assistance at that day. Not only did it make her day but, also challenged me to do my best for others.”
– Aysen, parent
“22:53 new PR for Miss Emma yesterday! Thank you for all that you taught her last session, she’s in love with running & she’s on top of the world. Strivers is such an amazing program, in 2 sessions it gave Emma such a great knowledge of running & it really helped build her self confidence, thanks for everything.”
– Vin Forde, dad of a STRIVER
“We can’t praise enough the work Colleen and Kathy do with STRIVERS. They are absolutely fantastic! From the confidence and encouragement they offer to the tips and information they supply, the work these coaches do transforms these young girls in 6 short weeks. It is amazing the results they achieve. Our daughter is not a natural athlete nor is she very confident in herself. During the first week of training she struggled to run 1/2 mile. During the course of her training, we witnessed her running improving on the softball field. When she finished her mock 5k the week before the race, our daughter was so happy and proud of herself. When we asked her how it was, with a big smile, she said, “It was so easy. Can I do the next session?” We can’t thank you enough for what you’ve done.”
– Karen and Dan Cushing, parents
“What a great job you two have done in creating STRIVERS Running Club for Girls. The tools you are giving them will no doubt play a huge role in the success of their lives. I’m proud to be associated with you and your girls. It is a program that should be copied in order to reach out to more girls.”
– Travis Roy
“In all honesty, I don’t think I’ll ever be able to thank you enough for offering this program and giving SO much of yourselves to transform the program into something so special, words don’t give it justice………you have to experience personally. Caroline tends to have a great outlook on life but this has given her true confidence that she can excel in a sport with hard work. Even her body image has improved because she believes she is healthy and strong by running so her body is the healthiest it can be! Driving home we had a nice conversation about autism because the children saw children with learning disabilities at the race – just so nice to continue a strong awareness for others all around us. C is so excited about the book club – loved the book. Take care and thanks lots from the bottom of my heart”
– Shelia DiPalma, mother of STRIVER Caroline DiPalma
“Great job yesterday! My husband and I also ran the race (our 1st official 5K) and I want to say that seeing the STRIVERS around me really helped to motivate me to keep going- I’m more of a “walker” so the run was a real challenge for me, but I did it. Seeing the transformations in Deirdre has really inspiried our entire family to start running too! It’s been great!”
– Caileen Horrigan, mother of STRIVER Deirdre Horrigan
“I have found a major benefit involving my daughter to train with the STRIVER coaches is knowing that the training is correctly structured in line with my child’s physical development. The qualified coaches not only ensure that my daughter follows correct training protocols and techniques, but they manage the key issues of balancing enthusiasm with regular training. I am so grateful that they helped my child develop a positive identity with running which I hope will carry through into adulthood.”
– Toni DiRuscio, STRIVER mom
“I’m thrilled that my daughter participated in STRIVERS Running Club for Girls. The program was comprehensive in teaching the girls proper running mechanics, stretching and nutrition. The book component and service project creates another level of involvement and connected the girls with a common objective. Best of all, the coaches found a way to bring out the best in each individual by having them set personal goals and encouraging them to have fun and feel great about themselves. What a wonderful message for my daughter to carry with her!”
– Michelle Parven, parent
“I loved STRIVERS! It was so much fun to run with my friends while also learning proper form. However, in the beginning, I wasn’t sure about myself and I kept thinking, How in the world can I run a 5k? But when my friend and I crossed that finish line last Sunday, I felt like I could do absolutely anything that I set my mind to.”
– Jane Parven, STRIVER