We welcome parent volunteers to assist the coaches at practices.
Wildcat alumni Assistant Coaches
Over the years we have had many Wildcats who have gone on to high school and college. Many come back during their off seasons when they are allowed to run with the Wildcats or when they are home from college. There are too many Wildcat alumni to list that frequently drop in to run and help out.
We thank them for their past and ongoing assistance.
Over the years we have had many Wildcats who have gone on to high school and college. Many come back during their off seasons when they are allowed to run with the Wildcats or when they are home from college. There are too many Wildcat alumni to list that frequently drop in to run and help out.
We thank them for their past and ongoing assistance.
LIZ BAUMGARDTLiz is the Head Coach of the Rockford Wildcats and the backbone of the entire organization. She is also a cornerstone of the Rockford Road Runners community. Her dedication to running, mental and physical wellness, and fostering a sense of belonging is unmatched. Those who know her often say she is one of the most caring and selfless people they have ever met—a true champion for both kids and the running community.
Liz’s journey as a runner began in the summer of 2007 after years of mountain biking. Seeking a change, she signed up for her very first race, the July 4th Firecracker. It was hot, challenging, and she admits she didn’t finish as well as she’d hoped—but she loved every second of it. She was hooked from that moment on. Over time, Liz found her passion in long-distance running, cherishing the friendships, conversations, and memories made during countless miles on the road and trail. Some of her dearest friendships, many of whom are now fellow coaches and parents within Wildcats, were formed along the way. Liz joined the Rockford Wildcats coaching team in the spring of 2014 after hearing at a Rockford Road Runners meeting that more volunteers were needed. Without hesitation, she stepped up, thinking, I love to run with pretty much everyone—why not kids too? Since then, she has become an integral part of the Wildcats family. As Head Coach, Liz leads by example, bringing boundless energy, positivity, and enthusiasm to every practice. One of Liz’s trademarks is her love for the trails, and especially for the puddles along the way. She’s well known for seeking out the muddiest paths, encouraging the kids to embrace the adventure and have fun. As she often says, "If you want your kids to come back clean, they probably shouldn’t run too close to me!" Liz believes that running is about more than speed or competition; it’s about joy, connection, and embracing the simple fun of being outdoors. As a role model, Coach Liz inspires young runners (and coaches alike) to find their own love for running. She creates an environment where kids are free to challenge themselves, get messy, make friends, and have fun. The Wildcats are incredibly fortunate to have her leadership, passion, and heart guiding them on the trails. With Liz at the helm, every practice feels like an adventure, and every runner feels like part of something special. |
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MIKE ELLERBROEKMike began his running career in 6th grade as a 100 meter runner, after some inner reflection he was fairly certain he was a terrible runner. He would go on to spend the next several years, the rest of middle school and much of high school, finding his race(s). Through trial and error and perseverance he would become a pretty good 800 and 1600 meter runner. Beyond high school and up until age 22 he had never run further than 3 miles, it took a persistent and angry dog, all be it small chasing him to that distance before the dog gave in.
Finding running to be a bit of a chore he spent several years, by his own admission being incredibly lazy. Finally during graduate school, a friend asked him to go for a slow 3 mile run with him….he not only covered the 3 miles easily but along the way found the spirituality of running discovering that it could be both relaxing and fun! Soon after discovering that running was fun he also met and married, she too was a runner. They would run marathons and half marathons and while training for these in and around Rock Cut State Park, he would fall in love with trail running. A few years ago the running couple, now expecting their second child, had their first a daughter Lucy, at this time Mike wanted to get involved with something meaningful. Mike found that meaningful something in the Wildcats and wants to pass on to Lucy and her soon to be sister as well that running can be relaxing, or challenging, or whatever you want to make of it, at whatever distance or speed you want to go. But first and foremost it should always be fun! Those are lessons he says he wished he had learned at a much younger age. For the past several years he has been teaching the lessons he missed to those who are a much younger age. Running with this Coach Mike is always an adventure, a challenge, and inspiring but most of all FUN! |
MIKE MAPESCoach Mike Mapes has been the heart and soul of the Rockford Wildcats organization for more than two decades. Mike’s leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment have shaped the lives of thousands of young runners. His influence spans generations, leaving a lasting impact on the Rockford running community and beyond.
Mike’s own journey as a runner began in 1980. Since lacing up his first pair of running shoes, he has logged over 55,000 miles—a testament to his passion, discipline, and love for the sport. His two children proudly ran with the Wildcats, making his connection to the team deeply personal as well as professional. Mike began volunteering with the Wildcats in 1997 as one of the team’s dedicated running parents. His natural ability to motivate and inspire young athletes quickly led him to serve as an assistant coach for three years before taking on the role of head coach from 2001 to 2015. Even after stepping down as head coach, Mike continues to serve as an assistant coach, where his experience and encouragement are as impactful as ever. This year marks his 22nd season of taking Wildcat runners out on the trails—teaching them not just how to run, but how to find joy, confidence, and perseverance along the way. Beyond the Wildcats, Mike has played a vital role in the broader Rockford running community. He served as the Race Director for the State Street Mile for four years and is a familiar face at many local running events. As a past President of the Rockford Road Runners, and now as their website administrator, he continues to support and grow the local running community he cares so deeply about. Mike’s personal accomplishments as an athlete are equally impressive. He is a USA Track and Field Level One Certified Coach and was named the 1993 Rockford Road Runners Male Runner of the Year. Over his running career, he has completed numerous marathons, including the Lake County Marathon, Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon, Grandma's Marathon in Duluth, MN, the Rockford Marathon, and the historic 100th running of the Boston Marathon. His personal records speak to his dedication and athleticism: a 4:38 mile, 16:04 5K, 33:47 10K, and an impressive 2:57 marathon. The Wildcats are incredibly fortunate to have Coach Mike Mapes on the team. His knowledge, experience, and genuine care for every child he coaches make him a true cornerstone of the program. Whether he’s mentoring new coaches, cheering on runners at the finish line, or sharing words of encouragement on the trail, Mike continues to lead by example—proving that running is about more than speed; it’s about heart, community, and the journey we take together. |
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JOHN KUNDEJohn began running with the Wildcats in September of 2001. A Rockford Road Runner who answered our call to the running community to help promote and teach the sport of running to children. He as run thousands of miles over years helping our Wildcats become better runners. He was chosen as Rockford Road Runner of the Year in 2004. We ask for a resume from our coaches so you can get to know them. The following is John's response to our request. It shows his sense of humor and dedication to the sport of running and to the Wildcats. John served as a Co-Head Coach from 2008-2015, this will be Johns 17th year as a coach with the Wildcats. " Ugh. Writing a running resume. I could probably embellish without much chance of fact checking, liking saying I won the Sauk City Cow Chip Classic 5K run in 1985. The funny thing is I really did run in that race and finished it in around 17:50, but I didn't even place in my age group. I was bummed, because they gave trophies with little cow chips on them. Ah, well, here is the mixed bag of running I've done. Never won a race, but always finished. In 4th grade ran around the school enough times during lunch break to run 60 miles. (Still have the trophy) Ran high school track and cross country in High School at McFarland, Wisconsin. Lettered three times. Graduated in 1983.
Started running road races in summers of 1985 to get back in shape. Dry heaved my way to many good times and lots of t-shirts. Ran on and off for many years, but with little conviction. On a lark, in March of 2000, a friend from high school who ran cross country with me asked about running a marathon. Started training, ran road races in Rockford area and finished my first marathon, the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon on October 8th, 2000 in 3:46:31. Ran four more marathons since, including the Berlin, Germany marathon in 2004. Compete in Rockford Road Runners Circuit races and have won my age group 3 of the last 4 years and finished 2nd once. Started with Wildcats on September 24, 2001 as a volunteer. (I checked my running log for this one, my memory's not THAT good.)Running with children and watching them progress, no matter what their level, is more rewarding than finishing a marathon will ever be. Completing a marathon means I got one person across the finish line. Helping train 50 children means I contributed to getting 50 bodies across the finish line. And on to bigger things." |
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Christina EmmertChristine discovered her love for running in 2014 and spent her early miles running solo, finding peace and fulfillment in the rhythm of the road. In 2018, she joined the Runner's Image group runs and quickly realized how much more fun it was to share the journey with others who had similar goals. By 2019, she became a regular in their Spring Training Program, where she not only sharpened her skills but also built lasting friendships within the local running community.
As her passion for running deepened, Christine joined the Rockford Road Runners to participate in their race circuit. It was at the Fall Wildcats meet—during the adult heat—that she first learned about the Rockford Wildcats youth running club. When she heard at a Road Runners meeting that Wildcats needed more adult volunteers to keep the program going, Christine didn’t hesitate. The thought of kids losing the opportunity to experience the joy and camaraderie of Wildcats simply wasn’t an option she was willing to accept. Since stepping up to coach, Christine has brought enthusiasm, encouragement, and a warm, welcoming presence to the team. She has loved every moment spent working with the young athletes, helping them grow as runners and celebrating their progress both on and off the trails. Her faithful canine running buddy, Chester, has also become a fan favorite among the kids—he happily soaks up the attention and brings an extra spark of joy to practices. Christine’s dedication to the Wildcats has made a lasting impact. Her kindness, patience, and passion for running are contagious, and her ability to connect with kids and inspire them to embrace the sport makes her a truly valued part of the Wildcats coaching team. Wildcats is lucky to have Christine on board, and the team looks forward to many more seasons with her guidance, energy, and heart. She can’t wait to welcome returning runners and inspire new ones to find joy in every mile! |
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CAROL WILSONCarol began running to stay in shape over thirty years ago. This will be her 28th year as an assistant Wildcat Coach. She is a competitive age group runner and has completed a number of marathons. In High School Carol played volleyball, basketball and softball, college sports included volleyball, fencing, synchronized swimming and softball. She also spent five years bike racing placing second in the North Carolina state meet, while she was in graduate school. Carol has taught and continues to teach Physical Education in several area schools. She also works at Runner's Image, Rock Cut as the cross-country ski instructor, and for her trainer. She has been active in sports for over thirty years in a wide variety of places and at many levels. She has assisted as a volunteer and running parent since the team started in 1997. Carol has two children who have run with the Wildcats, Corey for 6 years and Joshua for 7 years. Both are young adults who continue to run many years after their last Wildcat runs. In her spare time when she is not helping us, she runs, strength trains, does triathlons, sings and plays bells in her church
* Cub Scout den leader * Girl Scout leader * WSI instructor/trainer for Red Cross * College Coaching - Volleyball, Basketball, Track and Field * High School Coaching - Basketball, Softball, Soccer, Volleyball, Jr. High Track, Jr. High Cross Country * Marathons - Milwaukee Lakefront, Grandma's and the 100th Boston Marathon, Stone Bridge Marathon, Grand Island Marathon |
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CANDACE W.Candace wasn’t always a runner. Her journey toward a love of running began in 2002 when she discovered the St. Jude Children’s Hospital runs in the Peoria area. Inspired by her close friend, Laura Valentine, a St. Jude patient, Candace signed up for her first St. Jude Run from St. Louis, MO to Peoria, IL. Laura tragically lost her battle with cancer at the age of 16, and in her memory, Candace completed the 170-mile run in 34 hours. What began as a tribute to her friend sparked a lifelong passion for running. Since that first run, Candace has participated in over 11 St. Jude Runs, raising more than $15,000 for the children’s hospital. She has run marathons, half marathons, trail races, and other events across the U.S and in over 6 countries.
When Candace moved to Rockford in 2013, one of the first things she did was contact the Rockford Wildcats to volunteer. She was eager to give back to her new community, and coaching kids seemed like the perfect fit. She finds joy in the little moments—being silly with the kids, exploring the trails, and listening to them share their stories about life, school, and everything in between. What she loves most is watching them challenge themselves, realize that hard work pays off, and become part of something bigger than themselves. One of her favorite memories comes from a practice a 10+ years ago. After another successful day running with more than 100 kids, Coach Mike Mapes threw his hands in the air, clipboards in tow, and joked, “We must be insane to take 100+ kids out running in the woods!” Everyone laughed, but Candace thought, this is the good kind of insane. Week after week, the kids return with smiles on their faces, parents offer their heartfelt thanks, and former Wildcats come back to share how much the team meant to them. For over 25+ years, the Rockford Wildcats have built a running community that has awarded scholarships, fostered leadership, and created lasting memories for hundreds of kids. Candace is honored to be part of that legacy. She credits the kids, fellow coaches, and Wildcat families for making her a better runner, a better coach, and a better person. As Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” For Candace, volunteering with the Wildcats has given her far more than she ever expected. Through coaching, Candace has helped young athletes develop persistence, discipline, leadership, and resilience—traits they carry not only in running but throughout their lives. Watching these kids grow into confident, kind, and capable young adults has been one of her greatest honors. She deeply appreciates the trust parents place in the Wildcats coaches and feels privileged to be part of their children’s journeys. Candace holds coaching certifications through IHSA and looks forward to many more years of coaching, giving back, and helping Rockford area youth unlock their inner potential and realize the magic they carry within themselves—both on the road/trail and in life. |
Tonya ThayerTonya Thayer joined the Rockford Wildcats coaching team in 2022, bringing with her a lifelong passion for running and an infectious enthusiasm that has quickly made her an invaluable part of the Wildcats family. A proud former Freeport Pretzel, Tonya ran track and cross country throughout high school and hasn’t stopped running since. Over the past 20 years, she has competed in numerous marathons and triathlons, continually challenging herself and embracing the joy that comes with an active lifestyle.
As a coach, Tonya radiates positivity, compassion, and encouragement. Her genuine love for running and dedication to the sport are evident in everything she does. She makes every practice fun and engaging, creating an environment where young runners feel supported, motivated, and excited to lace up their shoes. Tonya thrives on the energy and joy the kids bring to practice and works hard to ensure each runner leaves feeling accomplished and proud. Tonya’s greatest hope is that the young athletes she coaches will discover a lifelong love for running, just as she did. She believes that through running, kids can unlock their inner strength, build confidence, and experience the incredible power of perseverance and teamwork. For decades, Tonya has been dedicated not only to the sport of running but also to giving back to her community. Her commitment to service and her compassionate nature have left a lasting impact on countless lives, and her presence has brought a new energy and spirit to the Wildcats program. Parents, coaches, and athletes alike appreciate the warmth, enthusiasm, and leadership she brings to the team. Tonya’s coaching style is a perfect blend of fun, focus, and heart, and the Rockford Wildcats are lucky to have her as part of their coaching family. |
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Gardiner RynneGardiner is dad to three former wildcats and running with number four. He coached cross country at Christian Life HS. He runs too and has trained for and participated in many local races over the years. Running is a great way for kids to build strength, endurance and character.
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James Wright
I was raised in a family that never ran. We often looked at runners and wondered why in the world someone would ever do that for “FUN.” Fast forward to just after my 30th birthday, and I was almost 300lb. I decided to take on running, and over the course of the next six months, I lost over 100 lbs. I then signed up for my first ever 5K and surprisingly got first overall.
After the 5K, why not a 10K? Then why not a half Marathon? Before I knew it, I was running 60+ miles a week, training for ultra marathons. After running a 100-mile race, I wanted to give back to the community. My three kids were getting to the age where they could do some races. So, we signed up for the Wildcats and have been running ever since. Now my oldest is running half marathon distances, and all three are running with the wildcats every week. I was tapped to organize the Wildcat uniforms for races and cross-country meets. So, if you come to a wildcats race, I am the face you are looking for to pick up the wildcats uniform. Now I am a coach, generally running with the group 4 runners. I am also the Race director for both the Arny Johnson Classic 5k and 10 Mile and for the Bald Unyealding Twilight Trail Triel 12 Hour race. |
Coach James
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Amy Miner
Coach Amy believes that running should be fun, and nothing makes them happier than sharing that joy with the Rockford Wildcats. Whether it’s watching young runners discover their stride for the first time or seeing seasoned kids push themselves to new limits, Amy finds endless inspiration in coaching and helping kids develop a lifelong love for the sport.
Their favorite part of each season is when the team heads out on the trails—breathing in the fresh air, running beneath the trees, and enjoying the simple beauty of nature. For Amy, trail running is where the magic happens. It’s where kids find confidence in their abilities, connect with their teammates, and experience the freedom and joy that running can bring. Coach Amy first joined the Wildcats family when their two sons became part of the team. What started as cheering from the sidelines quickly grew into a desire to get more involved, and they haven’t looked back since. Being part of the Wildcats has become more than just coaching—it’s about belonging to a community that celebrates every runner, no matter their speed or experience level. Amy values the inclusivity of the team, where every child is welcomed, encouraged, and celebrated for simply showing up and giving it their best. As the new season approaches, Coach Amy is excited to welcome Group 2 in April, eager to share laughter, high-fives, and plenty of miles with a new group of amazing young athletes! |
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Jake LoescherWhile Jake has often been told he looks like a runner more times than he’s actually run, his love for being active and outdoors is undeniable. The great outdoors has always been his happy place. Growing up, Jake was a multi-sport athlete, running track and playing golf, soccer, basketball, and baseball. That early connection to sports and teamwork has stayed with him, shaping his active lifestyle today.
As an adult, Jake continues to embrace adventure with his family. Each summer, they spend weeks hiking through state and national parks, exploring trails, and taking in the beauty of the outdoors. Whether he’s chasing his kids around the backyard, biking through the neighborhood, or heading out on a family hike, Jake finds joy in movement and togetherness. Jake and his wife, Mackenzie, discovered the Rockford Wildcats when they were looking for a fun, active outlet for their son, Truman. Truman’s enthusiasm for racing—even at an early age—sparked Jake’s involvement as both a parent and now as a coach. Over time, Jake has seen firsthand the mental health benefits that the Wildcats program has brought to his own kids—the confidence, resilience, and joy they experience from running with their teammates has been remarkable. He believes this is one of the greatest assets of the program: the way it fosters not just physical fitness, but emotional well-being, connection, and a true sense of belonging. As a coach, Jake brings a perfect mix of enthusiasm, humor, and encouragement. His excitable attitude and positive energy are contagious, making every practice session fun and motivating for the young runners. He strikes a great balance between nurturing a healthy sense of competition and creating an environment where every child feels supported, valued, and inspired to do their best. Jake is thrilled to be part of the Wildcats coaching team and looks forward to helping each runner discover their love for the sport, build confidence, and experience the joy of being part of a team. His dedication to fostering an encouraging, fun, and energetic atmosphere has already made him a fantastic addition to the Rockford Wildcats family! |
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DENNIS PAYNECoach Dennis first joined the Rockford Wildcats in the spring of 2013, shortly after discovering his own love for running in the fall of 2012. Though he often joked that he wasn’t a runner, Dennis quickly became an irreplaceable part of the Wildcats family. His journey with the team actually began in 2011, when his son, Sam, started running with the Wildcats. At the time, Dennis was happy to cheer from the sidelines and lend a hand wherever needed—though he made sure to let Coach Mike know that Sam came from “non-running parents.” Little did he know how much that would change.
Inspired by watching his son grow as an athlete and find joy in running, Dennis decided to lace up his own shoes and join the team. He loved seeing how the Wildcats program helped Sam develop his skills, and he wanted to be a bigger part of that journey—not just for his son, but for all the kids who showed up eager to run each week. While Dennis often joked that he couldn’t quite keep pace with Sam, he treasured every practice spent running alongside the other Wildcats, watching them gain confidence, strength, and pride in themselves. Dennis served as an assistant coach for three years, bringing warmth, patience, and encouragement to every child he worked with. His ever-present smile and gentle spirit made him beloved by not only the kids but also by his fellow coaches and the many parents who admired his dedication. Tragically, Dennis passed away in November of 2015. Though he is deeply missed, his legacy lives on in the heart of the Wildcats community. Every mile we run and every child we encourage carries forward the same joy, compassion, and spirit that Dennis brought to this team. We are forever grateful for the time he spent with us, the lives he touched, and the example he set. Each year, as the Wildcats continue to impact children’s lives through running, we honor Dennis’s memory. His love for the team, his dedication to every young runner, and the inspiration he provided will never be forgotten. |
Wildcat Coaches that assist often when needed:
The Wildcats would like to thank all Coaches that assist throughout the year. Our little running family would not be able to take kids for runs without the time and effort given by these volunteers. THANK YOU!!!
