Micheal Azira was named the head coach for the University of Mobile Men's Soccer program in June of 2025. He takes over one of the best men's soccer programs in the SSAC and NAIA with the Rams making 3 NAIA National Tournament Finals Appearances since 2012.
Prior to Position at University of Mobile
Born in Kampala, Uganda, Azira came to the United States in 2008 for college where he played soccer at Lindsey Wilson for three years before transferring to the University of Mobile in 2011 for his senior year. Following graduation, he spent two season playing for the Charleston Battery in the USL Pro league where he scored the winning goal in the 2012 USL Pro Championship match. He would be transferred to the Seattle Sounders of Major League Soccer in 2014 where he began a seven year career in the league. During that time he played for the Seattle Sounders, Colorado Rapids, Montreal Impact, and Chicago Fire. Azira was also blessed with the honor of playing for the Ugandan National Team during his playing career, making 10 appearances for The Cranes between 2016-2021 including 2 appearances in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations Tournament. In 2021, he made his return to the USL Championship, (formerly USL Pro), with New Mexico United where he finished out his professional career after two seasons with the team.
Following a successful playing career, Azira turned to coaching, being hired by Blue Mountain Christian University in January of 2023. Azira spent 2 seasons with the Toppers while also serving as head coach of Mississippi Brilla FC of the USL League 2 during their summer seasons.
About Him
Azira holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Mobile and a MBA in Sports Management from Southern New Hampshire University. He and his wife Callaghan Starrett Azira, have two children, Gabriel and Noa-Grace.
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