Port Jefferson to Welcome Two New Members to Its Wall of Fame

The Port Jefferson School District will celebrate two important figures in its history next week when it holds its annual Wall of Fame induction ceremony.

The ceremony will take place on September 18, 2026, at 1 p.m., with the district honoring two remarkable members of the Port Jefferson community: John R. “Bob” Estelle and Leslie E. “JJ” Goodman Jr.

For Port Jefferson, the ceremony is an opportunity to recognize two individuals who have made lasting contributions to the district, both in the classroom and on the athletic field.

Estelle was a foundational figure in Port Jefferson education and athletics, spending more than four decades serving the district from 1951 through 1994. During that time, he wore many hats, including teacher, coach and athletic director, while also serving as a mentor to generations of Port Jefferson students.

His impact went well beyond wins and losses. Through his many roles in the district, Estelle became an important part of the Port Jefferson community and helped shape the educational and athletic experience for countless students.

Goodman, a member of the Port Jefferson Class of 1968, went on to become one of the most accomplished athletes ever to wear the school’s purple and white. His athletic career eventually took him to the National Football League, giving him the opportunity to compete at the highest level of professional football.

But Goodman’s legacy extends beyond his accomplishments as an athlete. His success and character continue to serve as an inspiration to Port Jefferson students and members of the community.

The Wall of Fame ceremony will be held at the Earl L. Vandermeulen High School Athletic Stadium and is open to the public.

If inclement weather makes an outdoor ceremony impossible, the event will move indoors to the high school library. Due to limited space, indoor attendance will be restricted to family members of the inductees.

The ceremony provides Port Jefferson with a chance to look back at two remarkable contributions to the district while recognizing the lasting impact Estelle and Goodman have had on generations of students.