As the final whistle blew on our first full season together of 2019, we had no idea what lay ahead. While still part of the First Coast Black and Gold, the years 2020 and 2021 brought an unexpected opponent far tougher than any division rival — the COVID-19 pandemic. Like so many others, the First Coast Black and Gold organization paused all official gatherings to protect the community and avoid the painful task of turning fans away due to limited seating. To keep the fan club going, the First Coast Black and Gold decided that we can operate by small informal (or pop-up) groups. Our group would eventually be informally known as the First Coast Black and Gold – Beaches (for the Jacksonville Beaches area).

In spite this adversity, our bond was more than just seasonal — it was a brotherhood built to endure. With the Terrible Towel in one hand and the spears of determination in the other, we leaned on the Facebook page of the First Coast Black and Gold to organize smaller meetups, sharing locations and game-day plans. We weren't about to let an epidemic extinguish the fires that would forge us — not when we had already come so far.

Enduring these trials became our testimony of family bonds, determination, creativity, and a love for the Steelers, we kept the flame alive. And in the fall of 2020,

After exploring several venues, we found Sneaker’s Sports Grille — a place where Steelers fans could gather safely, cheer loudly, establish camaraderie, and rebuild the energy that had brought us together in the first place.

Therefore, to commemorate our roots, the Black and Gold of Jax Beaches (originally known as the First Coast Black and Gold - Beaches), had their very first gathering at Sneaker’s Sports Grill on Sunday October 18, 2020.

Here is our first group picture for our debut at Sneaker’s Sports Grill, located at Jacksonville Beach, Florida, on Sunday, October 18, 2020, to enjoy a decisive Pittsburgh Steelers 38-7 victory over our long-time division rival Cleveland Browns.

During the challenges of 2020 and 2021, we found ways to overcome uncertainty and offer a way for others to gather to avert loneliness and isolations for a few hours’ fun, thrills and socialize.