Blair Introduces its Newest Coaches

L-R: Shelley Dakan with Husband Michael, Bryan Arguez, Erik Savadyans

Shelley Dakan – Girls Volleyball Coach

Let’s meet Blair Girls Volleyball New Coach. Shelley Dakan, wife of Blair English teacher, Michael Dakan, started her volleyball career in Yakima, WA in 1978. She played on her varsity volleyball team, Eisenhower High School for all 3 years as well as competed nationally for her club volleyball team, Team Yakima. Shelley went on to play at San Diego State University for 2 years before transferring to the University of San Francisco where she finished her collegiate career. She has coached various levels from elementary school to high school. Besides volleyball, Shelley enjoys any type of game from cards to cornhole. She also loves hiking and exploring our local mountain trails.

Bryan Arguez – Boys Soccer Coach

Let’s meet Blair’s New Boys Soccer Coach. Bryan Arguez was born in Miami, Florida. This Cuban American Athlete began his career from the young age of 17 years old and has spent 13 years playing as a Professional Soccer Player, both nationally and internationally. Coach Bryan represented the US National team at all youth levels and was one of the select few at the time to join the U-20 national team in not only one, but two World Cups, as well as, representing the US Olympic team. Some of Coach Bryan’s greatest achievements are playing in the MLS with teams DC. United and Montreal Impact, as well as in the German Bundesliga with Hertha Berlin. Signing with DC United at only 17 years old was the beginning of his rapidly increasing Professional career. A part from the Coach’s impressive career as a Professional Soccer Player, Bryan has spent the last 3 years sharing his extensive knowledge on the game of soccer with the youth and future soccer stars of America. Coach Bryan has been a well known coach and player not only in his hometown of Miami, Florida but all over Los Angeles, California as well. Although Bryan Arguez has retired from the game of soccer, the love and passion he has for the game is still very much alive. Coach Bryan has committed himself to helping kids improve their skill both mentally and physically in order to have the best chance of living their dream like he has.

Erik Savadyans – Girls Soccer Coach

Let’s meet Blair’s New Girls Soccer Coach. Hello, my name is Erik Savadyans. I am 48 years old and I reside in Pasadena. I am currently the coaching director at 90 Soccer Academy and hold my USSF National C license. Some of my hobbies include: skiing, table tennis, biking and travelling. I have played soccer since I can remember when I started at the age of 4 when I was a youth level player in Switzerland. My vision for our Girls team would be to play an attractive type of attacking soccer with an emphasis on a lot of ball possession and high pressing. I believe in providing the Girls all the necessary tools and support to improve in all aspects of the game (technical, tactical, physical and mental).

Blair High School & Middle School, 1201 S. Marengo Avenue, Pasadena, (626) 396-5820 or visit www.pusd.us/site/Default.aspx?PageID=55.