John Conquest, Late Bellport Football Coach, Honored With Sports Field

BELLPORT, NY — Bellport community leaders on Saturday honored the late John Conquest, a long-time South Country School District administrator and football coach, by dedicating the middle school's athletic complex in his honor.

Conquest was inducted into the Bellport Football Hall of Fame in 2008 and died in 2013 at 73 years old. During his long tenure with the school district, he served in many roles, including that of a teacher, assistant principal, and coach.

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine said Conquest’s dedication to the children of the Bellport community went "far beyond sports."

"His influence helped to shape the future of so many young people and I am honored to have known him," he said. "Bellport is a much better place because of John, and this is a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy is certain to live on for many years to come.”

Councilman Michael Loguercio, whose district includes Bellport, said that although he never had the honor of meeting Conquest, he "left the event with a feeling that I knew him forever, as so many folks shared stories of his life’s journey and how he became such a huge part of their lives, and their hearts.”

Also in attendance included, Bellport Fire Department member Gino Cruz, South Country School District Superintendent Antonio Santana, Bellport Fire Department Chief David Didio, Supervisor Ed Romaine, South Country Ambulance Company Chief of the Department Greg Miglino, South Country Ambulance Company member Lissette Ruch, South Country School District Board President Cheryl Felice, and Bellport Fire Department member Ron Mascolino.