HamKam loses development coach Joakim Dragsten to Norway's youth national teams

HamKam announced today that development coach Joakim Dragsten is moving on to the Norwegian Football Federation as the new head coach for the U18 and U19 squads. Dragsten, 36, has been central in the club's coaching development program, but now gets the chance to work with the country's top youngsters from September 1. The move means HamKam must find a replacement before the 1st Division season continues.

What is the background of Dragsten's new role?

Dragsten was recruited from HamKam after years in roles at Skeid, Lokomotiv Oslo, Eidsvold, Hødd, Lyn and HamKam. In his latest position he developed young coaches and helped refresh the club's tactical approach. The NFF announced Friday morning that he will take over the U17 cohort this autumn and prepare the team for the Euro qualifiers in March 2027, when he will lead the U18 side. "I am enormously excited to work with the nation's best youngsters," Dragsten said in his first statement.

Why does this matter for HamKam?

Even though Dragsten never served as head coach of the first team, his work with the coaching staff has shaped the playing style that now places HamKam in the 1st Division women’s league. The club has struggled offensively this year – only 13 goals scored and 47 conceded, a –34 goal difference – and sits 12th in the 1st Division women with 10 points after 22 games (3‑1‑18). The team is also 41 points behind leaders Fortuna Ålesund W. Losing a development‑focused coach could make the rebuilding process tougher, especially given the current points gap.

What are the next steps for HamKam?

The club's sporting director has already begun the search for a new development coach. The focus is on finding a profile that can strengthen both the first team and the youth academy, aiming to reverse the negative goal‑ and point balance. Meanwhile, Dragsten will continue in his current role until September 1, likely helping ensure a smooth transition for players trained under his philosophy.

How does the future look for Dragsten?

As the new national team coach, Dragsten receives a broad mandate: he will shape a group of young players capable of competing at the European level. Starting in September, he will lead the U17 cohort and prepare the U18 squad for the Euro qualifiers in March 2027. Dragsten has described the job as "one of the coolest coaching jobs in the country" and is ready to get to work immediately.

HamKam will, in the coming weeks, have to balance the immediate need for a new development coach with long‑term ambitions to climb the league table. With only 10 points and a –34 goal difference, the pressure is on to find a solution that can turn the trend before the season ends.