Kennedy High School Unveils Athletics Hall Of Fame

BELLMORE, NY — John F. Kennedy High School has unveiled an Athletics Hall of Fame. The 53 charter members were inducted during Saturday's game against Valley Stream South.

Alumni members were chosen based on their All-American, All-State, state champion achievements. Former students were chosen if they were involved in a historic event in any sport, the district said.

Coach and physical education teacher Brian DeGaetano was instrumental in the idea that originated during late Principal Lorraine Poppe’s tenure.

"This is a project that I have wanted to do for 25 years," DeGaetano said in a statement. "I
have been keeping a running list of students dating back to 1994. The rest I have been
researching since last May."

The Hall of Fame is located in the school's gymnasium.

Moving forward, Kennedy will be having a nomination form and database of names
for the next induction.

"Our hope is that this event spurs interest and people give us names and contact
information," DeGaetano said.