Sam DiMatteo
Palm Desert
Summary
Accomplished baseball coach with over a decade of leadership experience in player development, team building, and program transformation. Transformed the College of the Desert baseball program from a historically underperforming team to a consistent Top 25 ranking in California since 2019. Expertise in strategic game management, recruiting, fundraising, and marketing, with a demonstrated ability to advance players to four-year universities and professional opportunities. Committed to the comprehensive development of athletes, fostering character, discipline, and enduring success both on and off the field.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Head Baseball Coach
College of the Desert
08.2019 - Current
- Oversee all program operations, including game-day management, practice planning, lineup construction, in-game tactical adjustments, and travel logistics.
- Recruit, hire, and supervise coaching staff and strength and conditioning personnel, emphasizing high-character individuals to cultivate a positive developmental environment.
- Direct annual fundraising campaigns generating approximately $60,000; manage social media presence, create promotional content using Adobe Photoshop, and market players to facilitate transfers to four-year institutions.
- Lead comprehensive recruiting and outbound placement efforts, resulting in more than 75 athletes advancing to four-year programs since 2020 (ranking Top 5 in California).
- Foster a cohesive, high-energy team culture among diverse players from across the nation, prioritizing personal growth, brotherhood, and preparation for life beyond baseball.
Head Coach / Recruiting Coordinator
Power Summer Collegiate League (PSCL)
06.2019 - Current
- Manage full-season operations for a developmental summer league team, including rapid roster assembly and disciplined coaching within compressed timelines.
- Conduct nationwide, year-round recruiting and ongoing player communication to assemble competitive rosters.
- Deliver intensive developmental coaching emphasizing mental and physical growth for collegiate athletes; provide league-wide support and mentorship.
- Guided team to four PSCL Championships.
Hitting Coach / Assistant Coach
Palm Springs Power
01.2017 - Current
- Provide individualized hitting instruction to elite players, focusing on mechanical efficiencies and mental approach refinements.
- Coach first base during games, delivering real-time feedback, strategic guidance, and motivational support.
- Contribute to a premier program with a history of over 100 MLB drafts and 300 professional free-agent signings, promoting open dialogue and mutual learning.
- Supported five California Premier Collegiate League (CPCL) Championships.
Founder and President
The SD Project (501(c)(3) Nonprofit)
01.2015 - Current
- Established and lead a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting at-risk youth athletes worldwide facing financial, mental, or physical challenges.
- Directed marketing, fundraising, and networking efforts, raising approximately $100,000 through individual initiatives over a decade.
- Organized and oversaw international missions to Africa, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Colombia, distributing sporting goods and hosting support events.
- Manage ongoing social media presence and website updates to promote events and organizational news.
Assistant Coach / Recruiting Coordinator
College of the Desert
01.2018 - 01.2019
- Assisted in all aspects of program management, recruiting, and player development during transition to head coaching role.
Education
Master of Science - Psychology
National University
San Diego, CA03.2026
Bachelor of Arts - Business Marketing
California University of Pennsylvania
California, PA01.2010
Skills
- Game Strategy and Tactical Decision-Making
- Player Development and Talent Identification
- Advanced Baseball Analytics
- Team Leadership and Clubhouse Culture Development
- Recruiting and University Placement Coordination
- Business Management and Marketing
- Fundraising, Advertising, and Social Media Strategy
- Adobe Photoshop for Sports Content Creation
Timeline
Head Baseball Coach
College of the Desert
08.2019 - Current
Head Coach / Recruiting Coordinator
Power Summer Collegiate League (PSCL)
06.2019 - Current
Assistant Coach / Recruiting Coordinator
College of the Desert
01.2018 - 01.2019
Hitting Coach / Assistant Coach
Palm Springs Power
01.2017 - Current
Founder and President
The SD Project (501(c)(3) Nonprofit)
01.2015 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Business Marketing
California University of Pennsylvania
Master of Science - Psychology
National University
Notable Achievements and Awards
- Inland Empire Coach of the Year (2022)
- Most Winningest Coach in College of the Desert History
- Conference Championship (2022) – Ending a 50-Year Drought
- First Super Regional Appearance in School History (2022)
- Four Consecutive Regional Appearances (2019–Present)
- Beaver County Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee (2023)
- California University of Pennsylvania Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee (2022)
- California University of Pennsylvania Humanitarian Award (2019)
Professional Playing Experience
- California University of Pennsylvania (2005-2010,All American)
- Washington Nationals Organization (2011)
- Traverse City Beach Bums (2012)
- Trinidad Triggers (2013)
- Fort Worth Cats (2014)
- Old Orchard Beach Surge/Long Island Ducks (2015)
- Sonoma Stompers (2016)
Additional Leadership and Contributions
- Designed layouts and operations for multiple professional baseball showcases.
- Advanced proficiency in Adobe Photoshop for high-impact sports marketing content creation.
- Head Coach, Summerball Showdown National Summer Tournament, Wichita, KS.
- Youth Camp Organizer, US Baseball Camps.
- National Recruiter, California Post Grad Program.