Drago is an energetic and accomplished coach and manager with over 40 years of experience in athletic and small business operations.
He possesses experience and knowledge in program management, worldwide recruiting, athletic developmental training, and competition.
He has a proven track record as a community and professional soccer coach, sports facility owner, academy director, high school, college, and professional head coach, and former professional soccer player
Drago is a 21 year decorated professional playing career spanning across homeland Croatia and America. He developed as a player in the Dinamo Zagreb Academy in Croatia, one of the best Academies in Europe.
Few notable players that came out of the Dinamo Academy, Luka Modric, Zvonimir Boban, Joško Gvardiol, Mateo Kovačić, Andrej Kramarić, Robert Prosinečki …
Drago later brought his expertise stateside transitioning into the ranks of professional and college coaching. He has spent time as the Director of Elite Academies and Specialize programs throughout the country, sharing his knowledge of European concepts and technical foundations.
Why did you choose to coach?
- “I coach to share the knowledge and experience I have gained from soccer with young athletes, to help them in their pursuit to be their best. For me, coaching is more than teaching skills—it’s about inspiring confidence, building character, and fostering a love for the game that goes beyond the field. Soccer has shaped who I am, teaching me discipline, teamwork, resilience, and the value of hard work. I want to pass those lessons on, guiding players not only to improve their technical abilities but also to grow as individuals. Watching young athletes develop, overcome challenges, and discover their potential is one of the most rewarding experiences, and it’s why I’m passionate about being a coach.”
Favorite memory coaching:
- “There are far too many to choose one. Recently, I have been fortunate to come back ‘home’ to Croatia Cleveland Soccer Club, where I can share my culture and playing background with players and fellow coaches. A tremendous highlight of this time has been the growth of our partnership with Andrews Osborne Academy, through which I have been given the opportunity to lead the AOA boys team to an Ohio high school state championship.”
Major accomplishments within the club:
- “As the Director of Coaching for our girl’s program, I have shared and enjoyed very many accomplishments by our coaching staff, from State Cups and tournament championships to college commitments and high school graduations. Our coaches care deeply about their craft and help their players become the best version of themselves. The accomplishments both on and off the field are a testament to our coaches’ passion for the game and our players’ commitment and work ethic.”
PROFESSIONAL SOCCER PLAYER
- Professional Soccer Playing Career
- Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia) 1979–1983 | 37 appearances | 4 goals
- Pittsburgh Spirit (MISL – Indoor) 1983–1984 | 37 appearances | 32 goals
- Minnesota Strikers (MISL – Indoor) 1984–1986 | 46 appearances | 27 goals
- Chicago Sting (MISL – Indoor) 1986–1987 | 45 appearances | 44 goals
- Baltimore Blast (MISL – Indoor) 1987–1988 | 74 appearances | 47 goals
- Hershey Impact (Indoor) 1989–1990 | 22 appearances | 28 goals
- Detroit Rockers (NPSL – Indoor) 1990–1994 | 41 appearances | 69 goals
PROFESSIONAL COACHING
- Detroit Rockers, Head Coach 1999–2001
COLLEGE
- Saginaw Valley State University, Head Coach 2001-2012
WPSL
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS
- Vardar North, Saginaw, MI
- Cleveland-Canton-Force, OH
- Cleveland Croatia FC, OH
