Daegan DeBono brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience. Originally from Lapeer, Michigan, he honed his skills as a standout defender at Lapeer West High School and with the Wolves Academy, leading his team to Michigan State Cup victories and serving as captain.
Soccer Training
Events
About
Location:
Grand Blanc, Michigan
Youth Club:
Nationals
Credentials:
USSF C License
Experience:
5+ Years
Position(s):
Forward, Midfield, Defense
Training:
College, ODP, Academy
Played:
Semi-Pro, College, ODP, Academy
Specialties:
Tactical, Technical, Defending, Shooting, Ball Mastery
About Coach Daegan
Daegan DeBono brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to his role as a Pro Trainer at Michigan Soccer Training. Originally from Lapeer, Michigan, he honed his skills as a standout defender at Lapeer West High School and with the Wolves Academy, leading his team to Michigan State Cup victories and serving as captain.
He continued his career at Northern Illinois University, competing at the NCAA Division I level where he earned Academic All–MAC and Distinguished Scholar‑Athlete honors in 2016, showcasing his commitment both on and off the field.
Since 2019, Daegan has served as a coach—and Technical Director—with Nationals Soccer Genesee in Flint, MI. His coaching philosophy centers on building a strong “1 of 11” mentality: each player is an essential part of a cohesive, disciplined unit. He emphasizes technical mastery and situational awareness—teaching not just how to perform, but when and why certain techniques matter in real-world game scenarios.
Following his playing career, Daegan transitioned into coaching, bringing his technical knowledge and team-first mindset to player development. Since 2019, he has served as a coach and Technical Director with Nationals Soccer Genesee, where he emphasizes defensive mastery, tactical awareness, and the importance of the “1 of 11” mentality—ensuring every player understands their role within a cohesive team.
Today, as a Pro Trainer with Michigan Soccer Training, Daegan continues to develop players across Michigan with sessions that focus not only on the “how” of technique, but also on the “when and why” of game application. His approach blends high-level playing experience, academic discipline, and a passion for mentoring the next generation of athletes.
Northern Illinois University (2013–2016)
Daegan DeBono competed at the NCAA Division I level with Northern Illinois University. As a defender, he was known for his leadership and consistency on the back line. Over his four years, he appeared in 53 matches, starting the majority of them. His strong defensive presence and tactical awareness helped solidify NIU’s backfield against top-tier competition.
Off the field, Daegan excelled academically, earning Academic All–MAC honors and being named a Distinguished Scholar-Athlete in 2016, highlighting his ability to balance athletics and academics at a high level.
✅ Notable Career Stats & Honors
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High School / Academy
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Captain with Crew Wolves Academy
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Two-time Michigan State Cup Champion (2010, 2011)
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All-Conference & All-District selection at Lapeer West High School
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College – Northern Illinois University (2013–2016)
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53 career appearances as a Division I defender
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Academic All-MAC Team honoree
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MAC Distinguished Scholar-Athlete (2016)
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Four-year letterwinner
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Coaching / Post-Playing Career
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Technical Director, Nationals Genesee (since 2019)
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Focus on defensive training, tactical development, and youth mentorship
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Pro Trainer with Michigan Soccer Training
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