August 24, 2026
(SANTA ANA, CA) – Mater Dei High School is proud to announce the appointment of Matthew Peter as Head Coach of the Sailing Team. Established in 1998, Mater Dei Sailing is one of the premier high school programs in the country and competes throughout the West Coast as a member of the Pacific Coast Interscholastic Sailing Association.
Peter brings more than a decade of sailing, coaching, and program leadership experience to Mater Dei. He currently serves as Director of Sailing at Long Beach Yacht Club and is the founder and head coach of One United Sailing. His experience also includes serving as Head Coach at the Chicago Yacht Club and Head Coach at the University of Rhode Island.
“Matthew’s experience developing sailors at every level, along with his commitment to leadership and excellence, makes him an outstanding fit for Mater Dei,” said President Michael Brennan. “We look forward to the continued growth of our sailing program and the positive impact he will have on our student-athletes as they compete and lead with Honor, Glory, and Love.”
From 2020 to 2022, Peter served as an assistant coach for the United States Naval Academy’s intercollegiate sailing team. During his tenure, the Midshipmen earned the 2021 Team Race and Coed National Championships, six conference titles and several top finishes at national competitions. Peter also coached eight All-Americans and the 2021 ICSA College Sailor of the Year. At Long Beach Yacht Club, Peter has helped develop a pathway for sailors to progress from entry-level instruction to national and international competition.
“I am honored to join Mater Dei and lead its sailing program,” said Peter. “I look forward to building relationships with our student-athletes, helping them grow as sailors and teammates, and continuing the program’s tradition of excellence.”