Las Flores Middle School
lasflores@werunockids.org

Coach Theurer Head Coach
My name is Todd Theurer and I am a physical education teacher at Las Flores Middle School. I have always been involved in sports, but it wasn’t until a few years ago I began running. My daughter was an 8th grader at LFMS and joined SRLA. I told her I would do the practice runs, but no way was I going to run a marathon! As the season progressed and our miles slowly increased, the unfathomable distance of 26.2 miles seemed more and more attainable. I ended up running the L.A. Marathon that year and have been addicted to running ever since. I have met so many amazing people and have learned to push myself way beyond what I ever imagined was possible. I have gained so much in my life from running and I cannot wait to share these experiences with our young people at Las Flores Middle School. This will not only be my first year with WeROCK, but LFMS first year as well. We have a great group, including my own daughter, and we cannot wait to get started!

Coach Smathers Assistant Coach
I’m Coach Smathers and I’m so excited to have the WeRock program here on our campus. As it will be the first year for all of us here at LFMS, I am looking forward to this new running adventure. I know that this season will be challenging as we all run together towards the goal of completing 26.2 miles. I am excited for all the new friendships to be formed and delighted to be a part of this journey.
It’s Always Fun to Hear a Coach’s Race History!
I started running again in 2010 and I’ve completed numerous races from 5K to 60K distances, as well as, many triathlons along the way. I love running by water, it’s so calming, so of course, the most scenic of my runs was the Catalina Island Marathon. My favorite race experience has been the St. George Marathon alongside my daughter, nothing like the joys of running with your family!

Bernadette Schaaf Assistant Coach
Hi! My name is Bernadette Schaaf. I’m so excited to be part of WeROCK! I always look forward to each practice and every race! It has been awe-inspiring to see the kid’s confidence grow as their miles increase. Every student runner has their uniqueness, and it’s been incredible to see them evolve throughout the season. Watching them become physically fit, build endurance, strong bond friendships, encourage and push each other as a team is breathtaking to experience as a coach and as a parent. These kids are amazing!
We became part of the WeRock family in 2014 with our eldest son, Slater Schaaf. I ran Saturday practices with him. He had so much fun that we added Steele and Vaughn Schaaf the next season. My husband and I were running aides for our son, Steele, all three years of WeROCK, as he has Epilepsy, Autism, and many other disorders. Vaughn was Team Captain for WeROCK in his 8th-grade year. My youngest, Vance Schaaf, also completed all three years with WeROCK. He watched his older brother race and helped me as a pace runner for Steele’s first year, which helped him develop the same love for running as his three siblings. This sport quickly became a ‘Family Sport’!
It’s always fun to hear a coaches race history!
I used to be athletic in high school and college. With family life and journeys, I had sent aside my fitness. Having children provides learning experiences with both obstacles and opportunities; WeROCK was the one that got me back into health and wellness as Steele’s running aide. So thankful!!!! Slater and I did my first half marathon together, and now, I’m addicted!!! Running the first marathon is such an overwhelming experience with a sense of accomplishment and self-gratification of all the hard work and diligence you put into the race. The feeling overwhelmed me when I finished my first marathon. I’m genuinely looking forward to seeing the kid’s achievement in personal victory this challenging and resilient year!
Favorite WeRock race!
It’s the Santa Run! Hands down!!! When I saw Steele’s teammates join us in his last mile, it made my heart sing. When I saw him push himself more with determination, it made me proud. When I saw his face light up and run into Santa’s arms with his teammates by his side encouraging him at the end of the race, it made me cry because it was the perfect memorable moment I will always cherish!!!!