Of the many great storylines that were part of Ballard FC’s 2025 season, Abeselom Zemenfes might just have the best one.
The former Ethiopian Premier League winner with Saint George SC found Ballard FC in one of the more unique ways. Due to civil war in his home country of Ethiopia, Zemenfes fled to the United States as a refugee and wound up in Seattle.
Wanting to continue his soccer career, Zemenfes looked around for playing opportunities and found Ballard FC’s Open Tryouts. From there, he immediately began to shine, impressing the coaching staff right away, and going on to be one of just two players (alongside Kaydin Wall) to make Ballard FC’s final roster from tryouts.
Zemenfes was in the starting lineup for the season opening victory against FC Olympia and he never looked back from there. Zemenfes was Ballard FC’s “Iron Man,” finishing the season with the most starts, appearances, and minutes played while doing so at multiple positions.
At the beginning of the season Zemenfes was in the midfield as part of a double pivot alongside either Andre Philibbosian, Beto Apolinar, or Sean Sent. But after an injury to centerback Davis Mungomba, Zemenfes stepped back a line and started in defense next to Christian Engmann for the second half of the season.
“Abeselom is a shining example of the purpose of Ballard FC, specifically on the soccer development and talent identification side of our organization. We’re so proud of all that he accomplished with us this season and how the experience has propelled his soccer journey here in the United States”, said Ballard FC Co-Founder and President, Sam Zisette. “His story further proves the importance of open tryouts and giving all players the opportunity to showcase themselves and earn a spot on our team. We’re hopeful he can be a part of our program for years to come.”
After being a crucial part of Ballard FC’s run to the USL League Two National Final, Zemenfes began to receive both regional and national recognition. He was named the Northwest Division Player of the Year as well as the Western Conference Player of the Year by the league headquarters.
Ballard FC is incredibly proud to be part of Zemenfes’ success this season and hope he continues to be a key figure in future rosters.
Written by Max Dresbach
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin 
Photos courtesy of Blake Dahlin
