As a Playworks’ Junior Coach, Josiah Pedroza is practically a pro by now. He’s in fifth grade, and this is his third year as a Junior Coach where he helps out at recess and serves as a leader to younger kids at John Muir Fundamental Elementary in Santa Ana. “You’re older than them, and they look up to you,” Josiah says. “The best part of being a Junior Coach is teaching little kids.”
His mission as a Junior Coach is clear: “I make sure kids play politely, no hitting, and make sure they respect the rules, respect the equipment.”
But what happens if those younger kids don’t listen? Josiah’s ready with a plan. “I stop the game and remind them of the rules.”
Josiah is one of 15 Junior Coaches at Muir Fundamental. Every month, he participates in training to learn new games, practice his skills, and bond with other Junior Coaches at the school.
Josiah is off to middle school next year where he plans to continue playing his favorite games of dodgeball, football, and basketball. He’s not nervous about the transition because he’s going to focus on one of the core Playworks’ values that he’s learned: “Respect the equipment, respect the principal, respect the staff and teachers there.”
High fives and Whoosh Claps to one of our awesome Junior Coaches who helps model safe, fun, and healthy play every day at school.
