Throughout the years, Sanchez became a seasoned competitor, achieving such accomplishments as US Rising Star Champion, American Rhythm (1999); four time Fred Astaire National Champion; three time US Open American Rhythm Finalist, and 3rd in the World Mambo Championship. Now retired from competition, Sanchez joined season six of "Dancing" to replace Maksim Chmerkovskiy and discovered a new level of difficult when partnered up with Matlin – someone who could not hear the music. The couple lasted longer on the program than most expected; no doubt in part to Matlin's fighting spirit in tackling adversity, but also in part to Sanchez's patience and sensitivity in dealing with such a challenge.