Kids on the Move Profile: Coach Meghan Dorgan

Kids On The Move recently had the chance to talk with L. L. Beazley Elementary’s Run Club Coach Meghan Dorgan about her journey into coaching, her approach to training runners of all levels, and even a few fun facts! When she’s not cheering on her young runners, Coach Dorgan is promoting wellness and healthy habits in Hopewell City Elementary Schools and Prince George County Public Schools as a Wellness Integration Specialist with Greater Richmond Fit4Kids!

Coach Dorgan has always had a passion for sports, but it wasn’t until college that she truly fell in love with running. Between balancing a busy schedule and seeking a quick and effective way to stay active, she discovered the joy of running and never looked back. Inspired by a sorority sister who completed a marathon, she decided to take on the challenge herself—and successfully ran her first marathon soon after!

One of her most memorable moments in running was starting the San Francisco Marathon on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. She also loves participating in the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k because “it has the best vibe!”

Start out slow and set reasonable goals. I find it best to work with a buddy.

Coach Meghan Dorgan

For Coach Dorgan, running has taught her that with the right training, anything is possible. She sees running as not just a physical challenge but as an amazing way to relieve stress and clear her mind. She is passionate about sharing the power of running with others and helping athletes achieve their goals, no matter where they start.

Read the rest of the interview below:

What inspired you to start coaching, and what do you love most about coaching the run club?

I’ve been a pretty active person my whole life and I’ve wanted to be a teacher since the second grade. I’ve had many different influential coaches in my life and I have always wanted to give back. Many students in the schools where I work aren’t able to participate in organized sports. I wanted to offer an outlet for them. I love seeing how energized the students become after their workout!

How do you approach training runners of different skill levels?

I am a little slower these days, so I rely on our coaches to help with our faster runners. We have a great group and our runners know who they can pace with.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone new to running or joining the run club?

Start out slow and set reasonable goals. I find it best to work with a buddy.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I would love to be able to teleport. My whole family lives in CA. I wish I could go home more often!

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

Livin’ On A Prayer