Fred Fusaro is a true pillar for the Blue Devils. At 83 years old, the legendary offensive and defensive line coach from Huntington has been shaping Long Island football for over 50 years. His commitment to helping young players on the field has created a lasting impact.
“Building camaraderie with the kids is what it’s all about,” Fusaro shared. Once a noseguard for Huntington, he now volunteers at his old high school, relishing the role in his second year as a “super senior.”
Often referred to as the godfather of Long Island football, Fusaro has guided four athletes to the NFL, with Giants Super Bowl champion John “Jumbo” Elliott being the most notable. During his extensive coaching career, he estimates that over 150 of his players have progressed to college football.
Now, Fusaro finds joy in the recognition of his efforts as his name graces the Sachem North varsity field, honoring his two Rutgers Cups, numerous county championships, and the positive influence he had on the Flaming Arrows over 34 years until 2002.
“He’s just a humble guy,” said former Sachem running back Dave Shanahan, a key player in the school’s 1986 Rutgers Trophy victory. “He was always there for me, guiding me in directions he thought were best.”
The relationship between Fusaro and his players wasn’t always easy; they encountered moments that required tough love. “When they know you genuinely care,” he explained, “you can pretty much lead them anywhere.”
Winning isn’t everything
For Fusaro, his 200-plus victories are notable, but the most rewarding part has been witnessing how many of his former players have gone on to become coaches themselves. “I’d say at least 50 have taken that path. It’s nice to think I might have made a difference,” he remarked.
After leaving Sachem, partly to step back from dealing with parents, he found a new opportunity to assist Shanahan, who became head coach at John Glenn High School in 1995. Fusaro joined him as an assistant in 2004, initially thinking it would be a short-term commitment but ending up staying for 19 years.
During their time together, the team clinched consecutive Long Island championships in 2010 and 2011, achievements that Shanahan credited to Fusaro’s impactful role in leading the Knights’ defense. “He’s got exceptional game strategies — he’s a true technician,” Shanahan said.
The Glenn Knights enjoyed an undefeated season in 2010, walking away with a Rutgers Trophy in their collection.
“The kids loved him; he worked so hard,” Shanahan added, pointing out that Fusaro was one of his best players as well.
Calling the right plays
Fusaro’s coaching philosophy emphasized the bigger picture beyond just X’s and O’s, focusing on preparing teenagers for life, regardless of their future in football.
“By challenging them and holding them accountable, he equipped us for both the game of football and life itself,” Shanahan reflected. “The bond the kids formed with him was powerful.”
When John Glenn boys soccer coach Lou Hanner overheard Shanahan talking about Fusaro, he chimed in to call him “first class.” This past summer, Fusaro was inducted into the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame, celebrating alongside many of the players he had mentored.
“I had 25 players come to Buffalo for the induction ceremony,” he shared proudly.
Once Shanahan retired from coaching in 2025, it felt natural for Fusaro to return to the Blue Devils, who currently have a 2-1 record.
Fusaro’s affection for coaching blossomed during his time as a varsity lineman in the 1960s, eventually leading him to play for Ithaca and then coach at the collegiate level with St. Lawrence and Hofstra.
“Being back here brings back so many memories,” he said. “I’ve truly been blessed to work with all the amazing kids and dedicated coaches throughout my career.”
