Port Jefferson School District has hired its new head football coach, as Craig Perrino will take the reins as the new leader of the Port Jefferson Royals varsity football program.
Coach Perrino is no stranger to the Royals community or the football team. He previously served as a varsity assistant coach during the 2025 season, where he quickly made an impact through his leadership, football knowledge, and commitment to student-athletes. Perrino has patrolled the sidelines for several years, gaining valuable experience along the way. Before joining Port Jefferson, he brought his passion for the game to Smithtown West, where he served as a varsity assistant football coach and continued to grow as a mentor and educator.
In addition to football, Coach Perrino has demonstrated a strong dedication to athletic development across multiple sports. His coaching background includes girls’ flag football, wrestling, and baseball, reflecting his belief in developing well-rounded student-athletes while fostering teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. His diverse coaching résumé highlights his ability to connect with athletes in different settings and emphasize core values that extend beyond competition.
Beyond the field, Coach Perrino is a dedicated health and physical education teacher at Port Jefferson Middle School and High School. In this role, he continues to positively influence students by promoting healthy lifestyles, character development, and academic success, further strengthening his connection to the school community.
Coach Perrino’s athletic background includes a distinguished collegiate playing career at Plymouth State University, where he was a three-year starting offensive lineman. He played a key role in leading his team to a conference championship in 2017. His leadership and dedication were recognized when he earned the prestigious Wharton Award in 2019 and was elected to the university’s Leadership Council that same year.
In announcing the hire, the Port Jefferson social media page stated, “With a strong foundation of leadership, coaching experience, and Royal pride, Coach Perrino is poised to lead the varsity football program into an exciting new chapter.” The district looks forward to the continued growth and success of Port Jefferson football under his direction.