Run Club Staff & Coaches

Coach Natalie

"I grew up in North West Indiana, and graduated from Chesterton High School. I live in Valparaiso with my husband and 3 kids. I have been running since I was 12 years old, and ran competitively in High School, College, and began marathoning at 22!

I have completed 65 marathons and have gained so much experience and knowledge from each of these races. This is my 3rd year as head coach for the Extra Mile program and I look forward to running with everyone!"

Coach Phil

"I Got back into running around 30, and completed my first marathon in 2016. Since then I have completed 13 full marathons and 24 half marathons. I have had the joy of coaching kids for over 10 years and now lucky to be in my 3rd season helping with Extra Mile and helping adults reach their running goals.

For me not only does running bring a sense of accomplishment it has brought some of the greatest people into my life who I have been lucky to share some great experiences with."

Coach Becky

"Ive been coaching with Extra Mile since the store first opened and training groups began in 2013!

The first group I coached was in the fall of 2012 when I worked for Porter County Parks a Couch to Turkey Trot 5K program. Since then, I have also been coaching the January/February Couch to Foot Pursuit 5K group at Sunset Hill Farm Park.

I started running in 2009 when I left a bad marriage and moved home (I was 35) it was my therapy and I didnt need to drive anywhere I could go out my front door and run down the country road and cry and scream and then feel better when I got home.

I love running in each of the seasons for their own reasons winter snow globe runs, post spring rain run, summer sunrise/sunset run, fall run just before harvest with a slight breeze. I also love the diversity and inclusivity of running. I have met so many amazing people and have made awesome friends, more like family, through running!"

Coach Molly

"Hi! my name is Molly Mooney. Ive been running since 2008. Ive completed numerous half and full marathons, and I love running! I love meeting up with others and the social aspects of group running. I like the accountability I feel to show up and get it done. I love meeting new people to share the joy of running with.

Being a coach gives me opportunities to share that joy and love with more people. I few years ago I chose to bring my peer coaching up a level by becoming a certified run coach in the RRCA program."

Coach Lindy

"Hi! Im from Portage and the mom to 2 young adult children and 2 of the cutest Beagles. I got into running later in life as a way to get healthier. As a nurse, I see daily of effects of an inactive lifestyle has on people and knew that I needed to start moving more. 7 years later, I have completed 31 half marathons (my favorite distance) and 1 marathon.
I follow the run/walk method. This is a great way for someone to get into running or to come back after an injury. This is my 4th year coaching with Extra Mile and Im a RRCA certified running coach. I love hiking, traveling and coffee with friends after a good run. I look forward to having another amazing season of having fun and crushing goals!"

Coach Shelby

"My name is Shelby Garbovits and this is my 5th year coaching with Extra Mile! I coached 5k runners for 3 years, and am on my second year coaching all distances for run club.
Ive run 3 marathons and will be running my 4th this fall. I cannot wait to run along side all of you and help you reach your running goals. Im looking forward to another fun training season."

Coach Sarah

"I started running in 2012 and quickly fell in love with the challenge and joy it brought into my life. I ran my first (and second!) marathon in 2014 and havent looked backsince then, Ive completed 13 marathons along with numerous 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and even 20-milers. Running gives me something to look forward to each day, and over the years its introduced me to some of the best friends and connections Ive madeespecially here in the Region.
Ive called Valparaiso home since I came here for college in 1999. Im a mom to two college students and one high schooler, and when Im not out logging miles myself, Im helping coach runners across the countryespecially womenas they chase their own goals, whether thats finishing a 5K or crushing a half marathon. Coaching brings me complete joy. Theres nothing better than seeing someone believe in themselves, improve, and give it their all.
Im so excited to be part of this community and cant wait to help you on your running journey!"

Coach Heather

Happy Day! It's Heather with Extra Mile Fitness Company

Running has always been my reset a simple, grounding practice that calms my soul and brings me fully into the moment. In some respects, I deeply feel running saved my life and has allowed me to keep life in check. As a lifelong advocate for movement, I've spent years studying the art and science of running through certifications with RRCA, USATF, and UESC.

I have also been fortunate to complete the JFK 50 Miler, two 50K ultra runs, and 34 marathons across the United States. My most memorable marathon finish? When my husband Todd got down on one knee and proposed to me at the finish line of the Chicago Marathon after running along side of me for 26.2 miles.

Since Extra Mile Fitness Company opened in 2012, Ive had the privilege of coaching adult runners of all levels, helping them find joy, purpose, and progress through every mile. I also spent five rewarding years coaching alongside Coach Arredondo with the Valparaiso High School Girls Cross Country team, where I was continually inspired by the grit and growth of young athletes.

My coaching philosophy is simple: just move and embrace where you are at with each stride. Whether you're chasing a PR or simply want to feel better in your body, Im here to support your journey one step at a time.

Admin & Marketing - Kathleen

"I have worked at Extra Mile for 3 years as a fitter, marketing manager, and buyer! I am all things behind the scenes for Run Club such as website, emails, social media, and information.
I have been running for 14 years, having competed in cross country and track all through school and at Valparaiso University. Now you might see me at Run Club training for half marathons!"

Coach Walker

Director of Track & Field and Cross Country at Valparaiso University

Coach Walker will be leading interval training sessions Tuesdays June 17th, June 24th, and July 1st at 6:00pm

Coach Arredondo

Head Coach of Girls Cross Country and Distance Track at Valparaiso High School

Coach A will be leading interval training sessions Tuesdays July 8th, 15th, & 22nd at 6:00pm

Meet the Team