Mater Dei High School is proud to announce the appointment of Carolyn Smith as Head Coach of the Sailing Team. Established in 1998, the Mater Dei Sailing Team has become one of the premier high school programs in the country and competes up and down the West Coast as members of the Pacific Coast Interscholastic Sailing Association (PCISA).
Coach Smith has served as the program’s assistant coach since 2023. She now takes the helm following a great season for the Monarchs. During the 2024-2025 school year, the Sailing Team earned regional recognition for its competitive achievements and three seniors committed to continue their careers at the collegiate level.
“Coach Smith brings a remarkable blend of elite sailing experience, coaching insight, and a commitment to student development,” said President Michael Brennan. “Her leadership will strengthen an already vibrant program and further our mission to form leaders in Honor, Glory, and Love.”
An active sailor since childhood, Smith returned to her alma mater, Newport Harbor High School, as head coach from 2017-2019 as part of her position as Junior Sailing Director at Newport Harbor Yacht Club. During her collegiate years at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Smith was a finalist for ICSA Sportsman of the Year, captured 1st place in the Women’s ACC Division, and was an honorable mention for All American Skipper in 2015-16 and 2016-17.
“I’m incredibly honored to serve as Head Coach of the Mater Dei Sailing Program,” said Smith. “It’s a privilege to work with such talented student-athletes, and I look forward to continuing to grow the program with a focus on teamwork, integrity, and love for the sport.”