For the past four seasons, Daghan “Dagi” Kesim has patrolled the touchlines and technical area as the Head Coach of the Everett High School (EHS) Girls’ Soccer program.
Kesim’s return to high school soccer was unlikely, as he had left coaching several years earlier, including a tenure at Lynnwood High School. However, with some motivation from someone close to him, he was back in the game.
“A mutual friend told me I would be perfect for Everett [High School]. The girls went through some hard times, and they need someone to motivate them,” Kim said in an interview with the Lynnwood Times. “I thought I would never coach high school again, gave up high school coaching in 2011, but I fell in love with Everett high, and girls became my family,” Kesim said.
With his latest opportunity, Kesim brings 25 years of coaching experience to the EHS girls’ soccer program. Over his career, Kesim has coached at the University, high school, select, and premier levels, in addition to coaching professional outdoor and indoor soccer in the county with the defunct Arlington Aviators in the Western Indoor Soccer League (WISL) and the Snohomish County Steelheads. He also founded Gala FC, an elite club team that trains and develops players in small settings.
Originally from Turkey, Kesim credits his experience playing European professional soccer and studying the game with helping him excel as a coach.
“[My] playing experience definitely helped, but studying the game and following and learning top coaches is a humbling experience,” said EHS Head Coach Kesim.
“Dagi [Kesim] has many years of experience as a player at a UEFA Champions League level with Galatasaray that the majority of US coaches can’t even shake a stick at and has also had success coaching here in the US at many different ages and skill levels, including being a High School Coach of the year. His tactical and detailed technical knowledge set him at a higher level,” said Everett Assistant Coach Jeff Adams.
Adams began coaching with Kesim in 2016 as a volunteer when his son joined Gala FC—a program Kesim also runs—then had the opportunity to apply to coach with him at Everett High in 2022 when a position opened for the Junior Varsity Coach.
Kesim loves the game, and he explains that being excited about it helps him in his coaching.
“I love passing on my passion for the game. I love teaching them never to give up,” Kesim told the Lynnwood Times.
However, the job of a coach always comes with some obstacles.
“Challenges is always the same answer parents of players who are not supporting, or they try to live their dreams through their kids with pressure,” Kesim shared.
According to the Athletics Administration, Everett High School’s program has seen remarkable improvement since Kesim took over.
“The team has shown marked improvement in performance, with athletes demonstrating enhanced skills and greater teamwork on the field. Dagi [Kesim] has implemented structured training regimens and introduced innovative strategies contributing to their competitive edge. The program has also seen increased participation and engagement from the community, with more fans and support at events.
“Overall, the program is well-positioned for continued success and development under Coach Dagi’s [Kesim] guidance,” said Athletic Director Melvin Bustamante to the Lynnwood Times.
Dagi Kesim’s return to high school soccer as the Head Coach of the Everett High School Girls Soccer program has been nothing short of transformative.
With his extensive coaching background and passion for the game, he has reinvigorated the team, fostering skill development and teamwork among the players. Kesim’s commitment to creating a supportive and motivating environment has improved performance on the field and increased community involvement and support.
As the program continues to grow under his leadership, it’s clear that Coach Dagi’s influence will leave a lasting legacy at Everett High School.
Author: Merrick Parnell
