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- Email:
- sullivd@scc.losrios.edu
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- Title:
- Head Coach
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- Phone:
- (916) 558-2684
Bio
Derek “Sully” Sullivan enters his 14th season as Head Coach of the Panthers and his 22nd year on staff, marking 25 years of involvement with the Sacramento City College baseball program. In addition to leading one of California’s premier junior college programs, Sullivan serves full-time in the Kinesiology, Health, and Athletics Division, reinforcing his commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field.
Since taking over the program, Sullivan has built a championship culture defined by player development and postseason success. He holds a 304–202 overall record (.600 winning percentage) as head coach, guiding the Panthers to nine postseason appearances in 11 eligible seasons. Under his leadership, Sacramento City has captured six Regional titles, four Super Regional championships, and two Sectional crowns, finishing as California State Runner-Up in 2018 and third in the state in 2019. Including his time as a player and assistant coach, Sullivan has been part of six California Final Four teams and three State Championship games.
Player advancement remains a hallmark of Sullivan’s tenure. Eight Panthers have signed professional contracts with Major League organizations, highlighted by Nick Mears becoming the first from his signing class to reach the big leagues. More than 150 student-athletes have transferred to four-year universities during his time as head coach, including 66 to NCAA Division I programs and another 50 to Division II and III institutions nationwide. For Sullivan, being a “Sac City Guy” means more than winning—it means preparing for success at the next level academically, athletically, and personally.
A former Panther himself, Sullivan played at Sacramento City College under Hall of Fame coach Andy McKay, reaching the Final Four in 2001 and 2002. He continued his collegiate career at St. John’s University under ABCA Hall of Fame coach Ed Blankmeyer, appearing in the 2004 NCAA Stanford Regional as a utility infielder. He later gained valuable experience coaching in the prestigious Cape Cod League with the Chatham A’s, further enhancing his player development expertise.
A graduate of Woodcreek High School, Sullivan earned his A.A. from Sacramento City College, his B.A. from St. John’s University, and his M.B.A. from Sacramento State. He resides in Land Park with his three children, Abigail, McKenna, and Kellen.