Suffolk High School Coaching Legends
Henry "Lonnie" Kittle

Henry "Lonnie" Kittle coached Amityville High School from 1932-47. His teams won seven county championships. Only two coaches have won more titles. During his 15 year stint at Amityville the team compiled a record of 107-20-1. Eight of these losses were suffered in his first year at the helm. Nine others were at the hands of powerful Mepham and legendary coach Frank "Sprig" Gardner.

Kittle's teams enjoyed five undefeated seasons and 34 of his boys won Suffolk titles. Kittle started the Amityville program on the stage of the Park South gym. The wrestlers practiced on two 5 x 10 mats covered with an old sail canvas. Later the team would be moved to the coal bins in the basement of Park Avenue North when the school was changed over to oil heat.

Kittle was never paid for his coaching since it was considered part of his teaching responsibilities. Following the 1947 season Lonnie Kittle was named principal of Amityville High School. He was inducted into the New York State Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1974.

Source: Andy Slawson, Suffolk County wrestling historian.