The Dagan family, known for their significant contributions to team sports on the Peninsula, is a shining example of the adage ‘basketball runs in the blood’. Comprising Craig Dagan, the esteemed head coach of the Maine Maritime Academy women’s basketball team, his wife Katrina Dagan, a distinguished member of the Maine Maritime Academy Athletic Hall of Fame, and their children, Evelyn and Patrick Dagan.
Craig Dagan has demonstrated an impressive coaching tenure with the MMA women’s basketball team since 2001, amassing a commendable record of 379-193. Notably, Katrina has also coached four different sports, her most notable role being the head coach of the women’s volleyball team from 2003 to 2011, culminating with a remarkable record of 134-60. Evelyn, their daughter, is a proficient sophomore guard averaging 10 points a game as a shooting guard on her father’s MMA team. Meanwhile, Patrick, the youngest of the family, consistently averages over 20 points a game as a senior at GSA.
Their passion for basketball was cultivated from a young age, with Craig and Katrina ensuring their children had the freedom to pursue their individual passions without pressure. Both Evelyn and Patrick have flourished in their basketball careers thanks to the steadfast support of their family.
Following an interview on the court of the Margaret Chase Smith Gymnasium on the MMA campus, the Dagan family partook in a friendly game of P-ISEE G, a shooter’s game similar to H-O-R-S-E, demonstrating their competitive yet affectionate dynamic. Despite their competitiveness, they display unwavering support for each other.
In addition to their athletic prowess, the entire family is quick to acknowledge each other’s contributions to their accomplishments. Craig warmly acknowledges Katrina’s pivotal role in their children’s basketball achievements, underscoring her dedication and sacrifice in supporting their training and development.
Evelyn, choosing to play for her father’s team at MMA, reflects on the opportunity as one of the greatest experiences of her life. Additionally, the family rejoiced as Patrick committed to playing basketball at Maine Maritime as well, symbolizing a full circle of fulfillment.
The narrative encapsulates the affectionate yet competitive spirit within the Dagan family, painting a vivid picture of the strong bond they share. Their joy, camaraderie, and shared love for basketball is palpable throughout, culminating in a memorable and heartwarming family shootout, won by Katrina with a single, perfect free throw.
The journey of the Dagan family serves as an inspirational touchstone, illustrating the power of unwavering support, passion for the game, and the unbreakable bond of family. Their legacy stands as a testament to the boundless potential that emerges when talent, dedication, and love converge, shaping the Dagan family into a remarkable basketball dynasty.