The winningest coach in Suffolk County football history has chosen a new school. Paul Longo will take over the football program at Shoreham-Wading River following his legendary career at William Floyd. Longo is expected to be officially named the Wildcats’ new head football coach pending approval by the Shoreham-Wading River Board of Education later this week.
Longo stepped away from the Colonials on New Year’s Eve, and many initially speculated that the move signaled a traditional retirement for the longtime coach. However, Shoreham-Wading River’s opportunity proved too enticing, and Longo will now patrol the Wildcats’ sidelines for the upcoming season. In an era where coaching movement has become commonplace at the collegiate and professional levels, this offseason has seen that same trend reach Suffolk County football.
At 68 years old, Longo still appears to be at the top of his game with plenty left to offer. He compiled a remarkable 253-67 career record and built one of the most dominant programs in Long Island history during his tenure at William Floyd. Under his leadership, the Colonials captured 15 Suffolk Division I championships, the most in playoff history, along with five Long Island Class I titles.
Shoreham-Wading River has long been one of Suffolk County’s proud football programs, but the Wildcats experienced a down year in 2024. They finished 3-6 in Division IV and missed the playoffs for the first time in 17 seasons. Despite that setback, the program remained an attractive destination due to its strong tradition and consistent success over the years.
The opening came after longtime head coach Aden Smith announced his retirement last month, leaving a significant void atop the program. Smith led the Wildcats for eight seasons, posting an impressive 57-23 record. During his tenure, Shoreham-Wading River won four Suffolk Division IV championships and reached three Long Island Championship games, capturing one title.
With Longo now stepping in, expectations will be high as Shoreham-Wading River looks to return to contention and reestablish itself as one of Suffolk County’s elite football programs.