About Us

Statement from Coach Watkins: "The Family Track Club (SI Family) originated on Staten Island in 1980 by my father, the late Mr. Willie Black, Jr. He created the team for me, Katrina Black Watkins, and my High School teammates to continue to stay conditioned and compete in meets over the summer. He extended the invitation to athletes from other schools throughout the Island to stay competitive and in condition.

I was a Mid-Distance All-American in both High School and College. My father coached St. Joseph by the Sea H.S. from 1977-1987. I attended and competed for Sea HS from 1979-83. My father led myself and other members of our school to many Island, NY City, and State titles. Until his passing in February 2016, my father continued to coach and officiate track meets in New York State and is well known in those circles. In 1983, I attended NYIT on a full track scholarship. In 1987 while competing for NYIT, our 4x400 meter relay team competed in the Division I Nationals and were named an All-Americans.

I continued to aid in coaching over the years. After marrying, moving to Long Island, and four sons whom I coached in track while home-schooling, I noticed that there were very few Track and Field Clubs for boys. Our son, Kyle, competed as a D1 Collegiate Athlete at Manhattan College and previously, a High School Athlete (2015 All-County and All-State, 2014 Suffolk County League Champ, Suffolk County Div 1 Champ, All-County, and All-State). Our youngest sons, Garrett and Kharlin, competed for Longwood Varsity Track Team, Garrett competes Collegiatly, and are now members of Family Track Club during the summer to stay physically fit.

The team was formed out of the need of our sons to remaining fit and competitive throughout the year. I decided to coach them and fellow athletes in the area. With the assistance of my father and brother (Willie Black, III coached at St. Joseph Hill Academy currently with S.I. Family TC, and is a NY Track and Field Official), I decided to use mine and their years of experience and knowledge to bring the Family Track Club to Long Island. FTC is now a Registered Long Island USATF Track Club. I am an approved and Certified USATF Coach/Member. I am dedicated to helping High School and Junior HIgh School athletes to reach their athletic, personal, and academic goals".

Statement from Coach Desir: "I am a Professional and Dedicated Track and Field Coach equipped with the motivational skills and technical training necessary to engage athletes and get outstanding results. I have eight years experience inspiring High School and Collegiate athletes to reach their potential as both athletes and human beings".