MELISSA STANKOVICH - Head Coach
(Triple Crown Recipient)
Melissa signed up for her first Team in Training (TNT) event in January 2005 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, entering the Jarden Westchester Triathlon, Rye, NY. It was then that she fell in love with the TNT program and its mission. She has been a volunteer/supporter ever since.
Immediately after completing her first event, Melissa volunteered to mentor new triathlon/cycling participants in their training and fundraising efforts. She continued to mentor every season up until 2008 when she was asked to become the Cycling Coach for the program. She graciously accepted, and with her experience as a cyclist and indoor cycling instructor, along with having competed/fundraised for seven TNT events herself, Melissa has been guiding novice to experienced cyclists train and complete Century bike rides (100 miles) all over the United States.
Melissa is a Graphic Designer by day, and in her spare time teaches Indoor Cycling and is also an AFAA Certified Personal Trainer. Melissa rides in memory of her Grandfather Ed Krzos, and Steve Brewer. She rides in honor of her dear friend Allison Kane.
LAURA DIRADO - Assistant Coach
(Triple Crown Recipient X2)
I was introduced to TNT through my friend and neighbor, Sarah Charleson. Her daughter, Meredith was diagnosed with Leukemia before her second birthday. While Meredith underwent extensive treatments, her parents raised money & awareness by participating in several TNT marathons. While at the time, I could not imagine doing a marathon - I was interested in triathlons and was searching for a way to “make a difference,” so I went to a meeting....
My first TNT event was the Memphis in May Triathlon in 2006. I was scared to death, committing to all that fundraising, individual & group training! Did I mention I have 4 children & a husband that travels alot? My coaches, mentors, & teammates were amazing - got me through it with ease! As a result, lifelong friendships were formed & I became addicted. In 2007 and 2008 I completed America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride in Lake Tahoe. Then realizing I was one step away from earning the “Triple Crown,” I signed on for the Marine Corps Marathon.... then the Lake Placid Half, the Mooseman Half Ironman, and most recently (2011) I went back to Lake Tahoe to do the AMBBR. Like I said, I’m addicted! My husband and kids have become my biggest fan club - in addition to Meredith, now 10!
Through the many years & events with TNT, I continue to be astounded by the number of people that are affected by cancer. It gives me great satisfaction to know that in some small way, I may have improved their lives. I hope that I can help fellow teammates to have a great experience with TNT... maybe become addicts themselves!
Peter Miranda - Assistant Coach
"My name is Pete and I am addicted to TNT! I have been involved with LLS since I ran my first marathon as a TNT participant in 1999 (New York City). I then became a running mentor and coach for marathoners up until 2007. In 2008, I made the switch to cycling and have been a mentor since that time.
As to my personal interest in LLS -- my oldest son is a survivor of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. In 1984, when my son Vinny was diagnosed, he had a 50% chance to survive. And while he is now cancer survivor, the rigor of the treatments have left him with some deficits and challenges. My hope is that someday, childhood Leukemia survivors will now be able to look back at their respective illness as a fading memory, without any consequences in their later life.
As to my picture -- "life is sometimes like a card game -- you play the hand your dealt, and learn how to make the best of it". In the picture, I am playing pinochle (and I am pretty good at it ...)
LEN PUTNICK - Assistant Coach
Len Putnick is a mathematics professor at Siena College since 1970 and has been a dedicated cyclist since 1972. Len served as Coach for Team in Training for six years and returns from a two year leave of absence when he dealt with medical and family issues. Over the years he has competed in running races and as a team member in triathlons. He has been married to Joan for 45 years, has two daughters, Marybeth and Sara, and two grandsons, Theo and Miles.
