At Girls on the Run Los Angeles, confidence is built one step at a time. For student Shirley Crocker of Silver Lake, the program has become far more than an afterschool activity. It’s a space where she feels encouraged, connected, and empowered to believe in herself.

Affectionately nicknamed “dino chicken nuggies” by her teammates, Shirley has participated in Girls on the Run for multiple seasons and says the program has become one of the highlights of her week. “Mondays and Wednesdays I have something to look forward to,” Shirley shared. “Even when it’s busy, I really enjoy my time with the team.” Over time, those practices, conversations, and laps around the track have helped Shirley discover a new sense of confidence, especially during moments when she doubted herself. One memory, in particular, still stands out to her: completing the practice 5K during her very first season. “When I finished the practice 5K my first year, it felt like just the right amount of time because I had the right coaches,” she said. “I felt that the coaches believed in me and therefore I believed in myself. I was proud of myself, like, ‘Wow! I did that!’”That feeling of accomplishment didn’t stop at the finish line. Shirley says the lessons she’s learned through Girls on the Run continue to help her navigate challenges in everyday life, especially at school. One lesson that stuck with her most is the program’s “I CAN” mindset. “Even when I can’t move the mountain, I can still try to climb over,” she explained. Beyond building confidence, Girls on the Run has also helped Shirley strengthen her connections with others. 

Whether she’s running laps alongside teammates or getting to know someone new, she says the program has taught her the importance of friendship and community. “Even if you don’t see a friend in somebody else, you can still make friends with them,” she said. “It’shealthy movement AND it’s hanging out with your friends. It’s just the best!” Shirley’s parents, Jeff and Andy, have witnessed that growth firsthand. While they describe Shirley as someone who has always had confidence, they say Girls on the Run has helped her better recognize her own resilience and capabilities. “She knows what she’s capable of and understands the process of meeting those expectations and striving to exceed them,” they shared. They also value the unique environment the program creates for girls who may not feel drawn to traditional team sports, but still want the benefits of movement, teamwork, and mentorship.

“Girls on the Run is providing the coaching and camaraderie and connection with girls that have physical energy, but don’t necessarily want to join a traditional team sport,” they said.
One especially meaningful moment came outside of practice, when Shirley unexpectedly asked her dad to go on a run around the Silver Lake Reservoir with her. For her family, it was a simple but powerful reminder that the confidence and joy she’s gained through the program extends far beyond practice days. For Shirley and her family, Girls on the Run has become an important part of the Atwater Village community, creating opportunities for girls to challenge themselves, support one another, and discover what they’re capable of. “Our Atwater Village neighborhood loves and appreciates the program working with our school to give every girl a chance to join and see what they’re capable of,” her parents shared.

Through every practice, encouraging conversation, and finish line crossed, Shirley continues to embody the confidence, resilience, and joy that Girls on the Run strives to inspire in every participant!