(L:R: Director Joseph Natale & General Manager Philip Flynn)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Roosevelt Island, NY – January 31, 2023 – Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC)
President & CEO Shelton J. Haynes today announced the appointment of Joseph Natale as
Director of Sportspark and Philip Flynn as General Manager of Sportspark at Roosevelt Island
Operating Corporation.
“Joseph and Philip both bring their unique experience to RIOC, having been rising stars in their
respective roles in the private and public sector,” said RIOC President & CEO Shelton J. Haynes.
“Joe’s wealth of experience at Equinox has already paid dividends as he shares his
transformative ideas to bring Sportspark to industry standards. Phil too brings to RIOC over a
decade’s worth of experience at premier not-for-profits – giving him a unique advantage in
navigating state government coupled with his astute background in programming.
"First, I'd like to thank RIOC President & CEO Mr. Shelton J. Haynes for the opportunity to be a
part of RIOC and join such a motivated team,” stated Joseph Natale. “What excites me the
most about overseeing the new and improved Sportspark is the ability to offer our members
best-in-class programming, a high level of member service standards, and new amenities never
seen at Sportspark. The member experience will be at the forefront of everything we do."
Natale is an 11-year veteran of the fitness industry, initially starting as a personal trainer and
working his way up into management for nearly the past decade. Most recently, Natale held
various roles at Equinox, including Assistant General Manager, General Manager, and Senior
Manager of Personal Training. Natale’s ability to lead and develop teams, streamline
operations, and create an exceptional member experience are all values RIOC seeks for the
future of Sport spark. Natale holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Management of Sports
Industries from the University of New Haven and earned a number of certifications, including
NASM-CPT and NSCA-CSCS.
General Manager Philip Flynn commented, "First and foremost, I want to thank RIOC and
President & CEO Shelton J. Haynes for giving me the opportunity to help uplift Roosevelt Island
in my new role. I am beyond excited for Sportspark to open and show off all the new upgrades
to the residents of Roosevelt Island. My goal is to be another resource for the community with
a strong focus on health and wellness at the center."
Flynn possesses over a decade’s worth of experience working in the not-for-profit sector. Flynn
served as the Athletic Director for Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Roslyn, NY,
the only full-service JCC on Long Island’s North Shore dedicated to serving every aspect of
community wellness, regardless of age or ability. At the JCC, Flynn was charged with the
development and implementation of all sports programs and activities. He promoted sports
programming growth, safety, member satisfaction, and member retention through sports
program participation and facility excellence. Flynn holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sports
Management and a Masters degree in Sports Management with a Minor in Economics and
Sports Marketing from the State University of New York at Cortland. Flynn was a DIII athlete in
both soccer and track while attending the State University of New York at Cortland.
About Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC):
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) was created in 1984 by the State of New
York as a public benefit corporation with a mission to plan, design, develop, operate, and
maintain Roosevelt Island. With a focus on innovative and environmentally friendly solutions,
RIOC is committed to providing services that enhance the island's residential community. RIOC
manages the two-mile-long island's roads, parks, buildings, a sports facility, and public
transportation, including the iconic aerial tramway. Additionally, RIOC operates a Public Safety
Department that helps maintain a safe and secure environment for residents, employees,
business owners, and visitors.
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Media Contact:
Akeem H. Jamal
Assistant Vice President, Communications & Government Affairs
Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC)
riocpress@rioc.ny.gov