California State University at Bakersfield Athletics

Former Roadrunner midfielder Leslie O’Connor returns to the CSUB sideline as an assistant coach in 2009.

O’Connor played for the Roadrunners from 1989-1991, earning first team All-CCAA honors in 1989 and 1991 and first team All-National Soccer Coaches Association of America honors in 1991. The Limavady, Northern Ireland, native continues to rank in a tie for second in career assists (28) at CSUB, and also holds two of the top 10 single-season assist records.

Following his collegiate career, O’Connor played for the North Bay Breakers (92-93), Chico Rooks (93-94) and the LA Salsa (94-95), all of the United States Interregional Soccer League (now the United Soccer Leagues). He followed that up with a 10 year stint with the Italia club of the Pacific Coast Soccer League.

O’Connor’s coaching career has stretched 20-plus years, both as a club coach and at Bakersfield High School. In 19 years at BHS, O’Connor’s teams (boys and girls) have won a combined 14 CIF Championships. He has twice been named the California High School Coach of the Year and has earned numerous all-area coach of the year honors by the Bakersfield Californian.

As a club coach for the past 20 years, O’Connor has coached teams to the CYSA State Cup championships, and also led the Trackers girls club team to the Western Regional Tournament of the National Cup. In all, more than 50 former players coached by O’Connor have moved on to play at the NCAA, semi-pro and professional levels. He also currently holds his “D” licence and “FA” preliminary badge.

Away from the field, O’Connor taught high school social studies in Bakersfield for 15 years and is currently an administrator for the Kern County High School District. O’Connor, his wife Beth and their two young children reside in Bakersfield.