Athletics Staff
Omar Sanchez - Athletic Director
Coach Omar Sanchez is in his fifth year as Director of Athletics at Saint Mary’s College High School, where he has led the Panthers to 36 conference titles, 8 NCS Championships, 49 NCS appearances, and 4 state tournament berths. He developed a five-pillar system focused on quality coaching, sports medicine, strength and conditioning, sports nutrition, and sports psychology.
Before Saint Mary’s, Sanchez spent 20 years at Holy Names University, serving as Associate Director of Athletics and head men’s basketball coach. He guided the program through its transition from NAIA Division II to NCAA Division II, earning multiple conference and tournament titles. A former collegiate player at Solano College and Holy Names, Sanchez was known for his defense and leadership, helping his teams reach multiple championships. He holds a B.S. in Biology and an M.Ed. in Physical Fitness from Holy Names, is certified in sports nutrition and strength and conditioning, and has taught courses in both fields.
A Los Angeles native now living in Oakland, Sanchez is married to Marinella and has two daughters, Mila and Ella, and two dogs, Chewbacca and Scooby.
Brian Shea - Athletic Trainer
Brian Shea grew up in Albany, CA, and graduated from Albany High School in 2009. He earned his bachelor's degree in Athletic Training from Chapman University and later obtained his master’s in Kinesiology from Humboldt State University, where he worked with the football and track & field teams for four years.
After returning home, Brian served as the athletic trainer at Holy Names University for two years, supporting their soccer, tennis, and baseball teams. He has extensive experience across various sports and recently worked in an industrial setting, providing care for warehouse workers.
A dedicated local, Brian is passionate about the East Bay and a loyal supporter of the Oakland Athletics. He is committed to educating others about their health, encouraging them to listen to their bodies, and inspiring them to connect with those around them.
Justin Leach - Strength & Conditioning Coach
From 2012 to 2020, Coach Leach served as the Director of Athletic Performance and Head of Strength & Conditioning at the University of San Francisco. In this role, he worked closely with Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Baseball, Volleyball, and Men’s Soccer programs. He also led a collaborative team that included experts in mental performance, nutrition, sports medicine, and strength & conditioning.
As a former college athlete who played defensive end for the UC Davis Aggies, Coach Leach understands the demands of competitive sports.
Through evidence-based and developmentally appropriate training, he helps student-athletes achieve:
- Reduced injury risk
- Enhanced long-term athletic development
- Optimized strength and power for improved performance
- Improved resilience and recovery