SUFFOLK, Va. - Longtime Nansemond River coach Allen Watson passed away last week at the age of 77. He was a staple of the Team War community from training, helping at meets, and always being a role model for the athletes Nansemond River High School.
"It's a rough moment for Nansemond River track and field, however, the legacy left by Coach Allen Watson will continue to inspire the NRHS track program. Coach Watson went over and beyond committing his time, money, and energy, to the Nansemond River student athletes as well as well as athletes all over the 757. He would volunteer at track meets and always brought positive energy to anyone around him. We definitely appreciate everything he did for our program and community. He will truly be missed" - Former Nansemond River Coach Justin Byron
Originally a New Jersey native Coach Watson began his running career up north. He moved to NY and then later MD where he ran on scholarship for Morgan State University.
Years later he was, like many coaches, talked into "helping" with the track program at Nansemond River. That helping blossomed into coaching which blossomed into a long-time career of teaching and growing student athletes. Even after new coaches came to NR, he was still there to help.
He is remembered not only for his accomplishments on the track but also for the many lives he touched. Almost anyone who knows him and his positive affect on the community would tell you that the Team War dynasty would not be what it was without the caring touch of Coach Allen Watson.