Leader Spotlight - Officer Frias, Camaraderie
Officer Frias, his co-leaders, and students celebrating their marathon success.
Officer Frias is the SRLA leader at Monroe Police Academy and, more recently, an SRLA Coordinator. He has been a part of SRLA for over 22 years and has finished 10 marathons. We are so excited to have Officer Frias join our administrative team.
What motivated you to become an SRLA Leader?
Twenty-two years ago I was working the Jeopardy Program at Foothill Station and I was asked to go to a meeting and get information about the SRLA program. To possibly get our Jeopardy kids involved with the program. After attending the meeting I was told I must begin the program with our Jeopardy kids. What have I gotten myself into?!
Officer Frias completed many runs with his two sons.
What is your favorite memory (so far!) from SRLA?
Having my two sons watch me run with the Jeopardy program and them saying to me "One day I want to do the run with my DAD!" (Alexander 6 and Nicolas 5) That started their running adventure. Each ran the marathon five times and became Division 4 California State Champions with their local team.
What has been your biggest challenge as a leader? How did you overcome it?
Trying to convince the Jeopardy kids that the Marathon was just 1mile at a time. I was not planning on running the Marathon but the Jeopardy kids asked me if I was running with them. I told them, "If I run then we all run, right? That is how I started my 1st Marathon journey.
What’s something that people might be surprised to learn about you?
I am a fun guy despite how scary I look on the outside and I am forgiving to a fault.
What is your favorite training tip, quote, or words of advice that you share with your students?
Listen, pay attention and do as you're told. That covers it all!
What is something about SRLA that brings you joy?
The camaraderie that SRLA brings out the best in staff, leaders and students.
Anything else you'd like to share?
That deep down, way, way, down I like UCLA. Some of my best friends are from UCLA. "Fight On!"
Officer Frias and students at the LA Marathon finish line in Santa Monica.
Rapid Fire!
My favorite race has been...
Fire Cracker run in China Town
The longest run I've ever finished was...
My first LA Marathon (2000)
One thing I can't run without is...
Music
My favorite place to run is...
In my dreams where it doesn't hurt!
My favorite post-run snack...
A nice cold beverage!
The best part of every race is...
The start of an early morning run. The fresh air and all the runners around you waiting for the gun to start the race.
YOU CAN HELP LEADERS LIKE OFFICER FRIAS GET THEIR STUDENTS ACROSS THE FINISH LINE
Donate, volunteer, or sponsor our students to make a difference with SRLA.