Kevin C. McNamara brings a unique combination of leadership, public safety experience, coaching expertise, and a deep commitment to student-athletes to his service on the Oceanside Collegiate Academy Board of Directors.
A retired New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Battalion Chief, McNamara spent more than two decades serving the people of New York City, rising through the ranks from Lieutenant to Captain and ultimately Battalion Chief. During his career, he held company and battalion-level administrative responsibilities, commanded emergency and firefighting operations, supervised training and fire prevention activities, and coordinated emergency preparedness procedures for potential incidents involving major New York City bridges.
McNamara was also among the FDNY firefighters who responded to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center while assigned to Engine Company 250. More than two decades later, he continues to share the experiences of that day and the importance of remembering the firefighters, first responders and civilians who lost their lives. His service was recognized with the World Trade Center Medal in 2001.
Following his FDNY career, McNamara brought his leadership experience and passion for athletics to the basketball court. He has spent more than two decades coaching high school basketball, including stops at Monsignor Farrell High School, Curtis High School, Tottenville High School and Christian Brothers Academy in New York and New Jersey, as well as Wando High School in Mount Pleasant.
McNamara joined Oceanside Collegiate Academy in 2018 and currently serves as an assistant varsity coach and head junior varsity coach for the Landsharks girls basketball program. During his tenure, Oceanside has captured six region championships (2019, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025), as well as Lower State championships in 2023 and 2024. His coaching philosophy extends well beyond basketball, with an emphasis on mentoring student-athletes, developing character and preparing young people for success after high school.
A graduate of Binghamton University, McNamara earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting in 1995 and served as captain of the university's varsity baseball team. He was also named to the ECAC All-Academic Team in 1995.
McNamara says Oceanside has played a vital role in his life since his retirement from the FDNY and that coaching has provided him with a renewed sense of purpose.
“Coaching has given me great purpose, and I have thoroughly enjoyed mentoring our student-athletes and watching them grow and achieve their goals,” McNamara said. “Oceanside has given so much to me, and I want to give back as much as I possibly can to the Oceanside students and community.”
As a member of the Board of Directors, McNamara is committed to helping preserve Oceanside’s tradition of excellence while focusing on the academic, personal and extracurricular needs of its students. He believes his years of leadership in the FDNY, experience working as part of a team in high-pressure situations, and knowledge of public safety can provide valuable perspective to the school.
“Being a student-athlete is not easy in this day and age,” McNamara said. “Academics and how we can best serve all students in the school will be a huge focus of mine.”
McNamara and his wife, Shawn, have two children. His commitment to service, leadership and mentorship continues through his work with Oceanside’s students, both on the basketball court and in the broader school community.
