83-Year-Old High School Coach Continues Gridiron Legacy, Mentoring Future NFL Players

Fred Fusaro, an 83-year-old offensive and defensive line coach, continues to shape young athletes at Huntington High School on Long Island, New York. Fusaro, who previously coached at Sachem and John Glenn High Schools, has dedicated over half a century to mentoring players, a commitment that has seen four of his former athletes reach the National Football League.

"The camaraderie you develop with kids is where it's at," Fusaro told The Post. "If you get involved in coaching, you've got to love it ... and I love these kids." Fusaro, a volunteer at his alma mater, is in his second year coaching the Blue Devils.

During his 34 years as head coach at Sachem, which concluded in 2002, Fusaro amassed over 200 victories and numerous accolades, including multiple county titles and two Rutgers Trophies. He also estimates that more than 150 of his players went on to play college football. One of his most notable former players is John "Jumbo" John Elliott, a Super Bowl champion with the New York Giants.

After leaving Sachem, Fusaro joined John Glenn High School in 2004 as an assistant coach under former player Dave Shanahan. During their 19 years together, they led the Knights to back-to-back Long Island championships in 2010 and 2011, with the 2010 team achieving an undefeated season and securing a Rutgers Trophy. Shanahan described Fusaro as "instrumental" and a "true technician" for his defensive schemes.

Fusaro's coaching philosophy emphasizes character development and accountability, preparing his players for life beyond the football field. "By pushing you hard, by holding you accountable, he prepared you not only for the game of football, but for the great game of life," said Shanahan.

Beyond his coaching achievements, Fusaro has inspired at least 50 of his former players to become coaches themselves. In recognition of his impact, Fusaro was inducted into the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame over the summer, with 25 former players attending the ceremony.

Fusaro, who played football at Huntington in the 1960s and later coached at the college level with St. Lawrence and Hofstra, found his passion for coaching through his own high school mentors. He returned to coach Huntington High School after Shanahan retired from coaching in 2025. "It brought back a lot of memories being here," Fusaro said. "I've been blessed, truly blessed, to have the kids that I had and the dedicated coaches that I had over the years."