Anthony Cerullo, a respected figure in Suffolk County high school athletics as the longtime John Glenn football coach and athletic director, died at his East Northport home on July 24, surrounded by his family. He was 83.

Known as a master motivator, Cerullo brought a fiery, charismatic presence to the sidelines and had a unique ability to get the most out of his players and assistant coaches. His influence extended well beyond football, as he spent decades helping shape the athletic culture at John Glenn and throughout the Elwood School District.

Born in the Bronx in 1943, Cerullo attended Our Lady of Grace Elementary School before graduating from DeWitt Clinton High School in 1961. A standout quarterback, he led the Governors to a New York City championship during his senior season and earned All-City honors.

Cerullo continued his football career at Ithaca College, where he later began his coaching journey as a graduate assistant in 1965. The Bombers went undefeated that season, providing an early glimpse of the winning environments that would become a hallmark of his career.

Over the next 21 years, Cerullo worked his way from the college ranks to become one of Suffolk County’s most successful high school football coaches.

He became the fifth head football coach in John Glenn history in 1974 and remained in the position for 12 seasons. Under Cerullo, the Knights compiled an impressive 81-23-3 record, captured seven league championships and consistently competed among Suffolk County’s elite programs. Cerullo was named Coach of the Year seven times during his tenure.

The pinnacle came in 1979, when John Glenn was awarded the prestigious Rutgers Trophy as Suffolk County’s top football team.

Cerullo’s impact on Elwood did not end when his coaching career concluded. He transitioned into athletic administration and served as the district’s director of athletics from 1986 through 1999, spending another 14 years influencing generations of student-athletes, coaches and athletic programs.

His accomplishments and lasting contributions to Long Island sports were recognized in 2006 when he was inducted into the Suffolk County Sports Hall of Fame.

While the victories, championships and honors defined an extraordinary athletic career, Cerullo’s legacy was equally rooted in the relationships he built and the standards he established. His demanding but charismatic approach made him a memorable presence for those who played and coached alongside him, and his influence remained part of the John Glenn athletic tradition long after he left the sideline.

Cerullo is survived by his wife of 56 years, Carmela; their four sons, Anthony of East Branch, New York, Joseph of Syosset, Peter of St. James and Matthew of Commack; his brother, James of Smithtown; and 10 grandchildren.