OUR STORY

Eddie and Priscilla Ford are both San Diego natives who share a passion for youth sports and community. In 2002 they founded the Mercury San Diego Track Club, with a desire to build a community that brings people together to run stronger and support one another. 

Priscilla Ford, co-founder of Mercury SD and San Diego native graduated from Morse H.S. She went on to earn a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from San Diego State University. She is a certified USATF National Official and a member of the San Diego Starter’s Association. Coach Priscilla enjoys helping youth discover the wonderful world of track and field which is the basis of 90% of all sports.

Eddie Ford, co-founder and head coach of Mercury SD. He played football and ran track at Morse high school competing in the 4 x 100m, 100m, 200m, and shot put. He received a scholarship to attend the University of Colorado Boulder. Later, earning a B.A. from the University of Phoenix in Business Management, and currently holds a C10 electrical contractor’s license. Coach Eddie is currently the head J.V. Football coach and Head varsity track coach at Morse high school.

Our staff is committed to the development of each athlete and we emphasize the importance of education and family.

DR. TRACY THOMPSON

Tracy Thompson is a San Diego native and co-founder of Mercury San Diego Track Club. He is a recognized community champion and educational titan in the greater San Diego area. 

His commitment to “each one, teach one” is rooted in the Mercury identity. Through his guidance and expertise, athletes from the Mercury program evolve into scholars and leaders in the community. 

When not coaching track Tracy serves on numerous boards and task forces that seek to bring equity of access and opportunity for youth. Tracy has been a pillar of the community for over 3 decades.

  • I was born and raised in San Diego, CA and one of the OG Athletes of Mercury. I am a graduate of The Art Institute of CA with a Bachelors in Culinary Management and a Graduate of The University of Alabama with a Masters in Restaurant & Hospitality Management. I am the Head Coach of Cross Country and Girls Track & Field at Morse High School. I love coaching because I want to give back and support our great athletes as they grow in their student-athlete journey.

  • Ken Nwadike Jr. is a San Diego native who attended Chula Vista High School and competed in middle distance track & field and cross country running. Ken received a track scholarship to attend California State University San Marcos, earning NAIA All-American honors in the 800m and 1500m events. Prior to completing college, Ken was recruited by the Olympic Developmental Nike Farm Team in Palo Alto, CA to compete professionally as a 1500 meter runner.

    Ken’s passion for inspiring youth on and off the track is shown through his commitment as a mentor for young adults. As an international motivational speaker since 2012, Ken travels globally to inspire high school and college students on a variety of topics, ranging from: overcoming obstacles, bridge building, and promoting peace and kindness. Ken is also the head track & field coach at St. Augustine High School.

  • I was born and raised in San Diego, CA. I graduated from Grambling State University with a B.A. in Child Development and Early Literacy. I’ve always had a love for coaching. I was the Varsity Head Coach for King Chavez Community High School. I have always wanted to coach some amazing youth and give back to my community. Being one of the original Mercury athletes, it’s great to be able to help the athletes grow physically but also mentally. Finish Strong!

  • Bazz Fontenot is a dedicated track and field coach specializing in hurdles and sprints. He has been with Mercury San Diego since 2022. Born and raised in San Diego, Bazz is deeply rooted in his community. He attended Morse High School, and later pursued his education and athletics at Grossmont College.

    With a diverse coaching background, Bazz has also made a significant impact on the high school basketball scene. Since 2010, he has been coaching basketball, and presently holds the position of head boys basketball coach at San Diego High School. Additionally, he serves as an assistant basketball coach at San Diego City College.

    Bazz Fontenot's coaching experience, combined with his commitment to nurturing athletic talent, makes him a valued mentor in both track and field and basketball domains. His ultimate goal is to prepare student athletes to continue their academic and athletic passions in college.

  • D'Anthony Walcott born and raised in San Diego, and former athlete of Mercury San Diego. I ran sprints, relays, and hurdles. I am a graduate of Howard University with a bachelor’s in legal communications. I enjoy being able to give back to the community as a coach because it was once done for me.

  • Born in San Diego, CA, I am a graduate of Campbell University earning my Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a minor in Marketing. I was a two sport athlete in high school and on the collegiate level. I ran the 200m and 400m.

  • Daquirae (Dak) Irby born and raised in San Diego, CA . I am a graduate from the University of San Diego, earning my bachelor degree in sociology. I was a three sport athlete in high school. In high school I did long jump, triple jump, and high jump.

BOARD MEMBERS

PRISCILLA FORD - PRESIDENT

JACQUETTA JENKINS - PARENT LIAISON

TAMARA MARSHALL - TREASURE

ESSENCE PHILLIPS - SECRETARY

FLOYD NORTH - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY