Our Community Star in May is Adem Kaya, PhD, a sportsman, educator, community worker, organizer, and, above all, a unique unifying force in the Turkish American Community. His long story, from modest beginnings in southeastern Türkiye to becoming a national wrestling champion and then a sports science and education professor in the US, is awe-inspiring. Dr Kaya gives back to the community as a very active coach, teacher, and organizer. Most importantly, he focuses on teaching traditional Turkish sports, such as wrestling and archery, as well as the most popular sport in the world, soccer, to young Turkish children. Thus, he fills a big void in the education of our young. He also promotes Turkish traditional sports internationally at conferences and in his publications. We congratulate and thank Dr Kaya for his tireless dedication to sports education and for preserving the Turkish sports traditions
By Oya Bain
This month’s Community Star is Dr Adem Kaya, a former national wrestling champion, educator, and community leader. From his roots in Kahramanmaraş to building a life dedicated to sports, youth mentorship, and cultural preservation in the US, Dr. Kaya’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and service. In this interview, he shares his journey and vision for empowering the next generation through education and traditional Turkish sports.
Can you tell us about your early beginnings?
I am from Goksun, Kahramanmaras, and grew up in a small mountain village with five siblings. I was the first in my tribe to earn a college degree.
Your education and training?
I attended a government boarding school and finished high school in Afsin, where I began wrestling. I earned my degree in physical education from Gazi University, one of Türkiye’s top sports science schools. My training started at Afsin TEK Sport Club, where I learned discipline, respect, and hard work.
Could you tell us about your journey to the US? What were your initial experiences like?
I came to the US in 2001 to study English after competing internationally with the national team. The beginning was tough—I did not speak English, and we did not get proper training in school back home. However, being part of a supportive wrestling community was extremely helpful. The coach at Lock Haven University treated me like family—we are still in touch.
What made you decide to settle in the US?
It was mainly the opportunities in education and coaching. I saw a path where I could pursue both my academic goals and my passion for wrestling.
You have a fascinating educational background and career path. Can you tell us more about it?
Education has always been a priority. I wanted to study law but ended up in physical education, which turned out to be a great path. After moving to the US, I earned two master’s degrees—sports science and MBA—and later a PhD in educational leadership. Education has helped me grow and allowed me to give back to others.
Can you tell us how you went from being a competitive athlete to being a university professor in the US?
My journey started on the Turkish National Wrestling Team, where I was a six-time national champion. Competing internationally, including in the US, opened my eyes to academic and professional opportunities beyond the mat. After trying out for the 2000 Olympic team and not making the final cut, I came to the US in 2001 as a language student, aiming to pursue education and coaching. While studying English in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, I connected with the wrestling team and earned a coaching position at UNC Chapel Hill. I continued my education and earned my master’s and PhD from North Carolina A&T State University. My background as an athlete adds real-life insight to my teaching in sports psychology, leadership, and ethics.
How do you see the difference between coaching and teaching in Sport Management?
Coaching goes beyond instructions—it is about motivating athletes and helping them grow. It requires not just technical knowledge but also strong teaching skills. You must break things down, build trust, and create a culture of learning and accountability. Whether in coaching or teaching, success comes from inspiring growth and building a strong, united team.
How do you balance teaching, coaching, and family?
Discipline and structure help me balance everything. Competing at a high level taught me time management and sacrifice. I prioritize my goals and stay focused, whether I am teaching, coaching, or spending time with my family. I also teach my kids the same values through their involvement in sports.
What are your future goals in the community?
I will always be involved in sports. One of my main goals is to create a community sports center where I can mentor youth, especially those lacking access to quality programs and role models.
How did you become so involved with the Turkish American community?
I was raised with strong cultural values. Wherever I live, I get involved in cultural and community work. I help organize youth programs and events around national, cultural, and religious celebrations to support the Turkish-American community.
You have organizations in Maryland and Virginia. Can you tell us about them?
I run two organizations—one in Maryland focused on youth development through sports, and another in Fairfax, Virginia, that offers structured sports programs for all ages in a multipurpose facility. We provide safe, engaging spaces for our community.
You promote soccer, wrestling, and archery. Which sport is most popular among the youth?
It depends on the setup. Wrestling and soccer are more popular because they are easier to organize. Archery, mainly traditional Turkish archery, requires more resources and comes with higher risk. Still, I believe traditional sports are essential for preserving culture.
What age groups do you primarily work with?
Mostly kids between 5 and 16. It is an important age where sports help build confidence, discipline, and character.
You are highly involved in International Traditional Sports and Games. Why is that important to you?
I have loved traditional sports since childhood, especially Karakucak Güreşi. Over the past decade, I have researched and participated in global events, such as the Ethnosport Festival and the World Nomad Games. I have published books and articles, and I serve as conference secretary for the International TSG Conference. My work focuses on Turkish and Central Asian traditions.
What are some challenges and memorable moments from your journey?
There are always challenges—limited resources, time, and responsibilities—but I have used what I have to give youth meaningful experiences. The most rewarding moments are seeing kids discover their passion and watching sports bring people together.
Could you tell us about your family in the US and Türkiye?
I am married to Zahide, who has been an enormous support. We have two children—my son wrestles, and my daughter is a freshman at the University of Maryland, Baltimore City. I lost my mother 30 years ago, and my father recently at age 101. My in-laws are still living.
What hobbies and activities do you enjoy in your free time?
I stay active with wrestling, soccer, tennis, hiking, and table tennis. Sports help me relax, stay healthy, and connect with others.
Could you describe your daily routine for us?
My days balance work, family, and business. I teach three days a week as a professor and help with my wife’s childcare business. Mornings are busy with the kids, and evenings are for family time. My wife and daughter handle a lot at home so that I can focus on my work.
What is your favorite quote? What is your proudest moment?
My proudest moment was winning the Cadet World Championship in 1991. My favorite quote is from Dan Gable: “Once you wrestle, everything else in life is easier.”
Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?
My brother Veli inspired me early in life. In the past 20–25 years, Prof Mehmet Turkmen has been a great mentor, one of the leading scholars in traditional sports worldwide.
What are your recommendations to the Turkish-American Community?
We need to avoid getting caught up in political issues from Türkiye. Instead, we should unite through meaningful community, cultural, and sports activities, especially for our youth.
Would you like to share a message with our readers?
I am proud of our community’s progress. In the past 15 to 20 years, many have stepped up as business leaders, scholars, and organizers. It makes me hopeful for the future. ■
