Former Uganda Cranes Midfielder Michael Azira Appointed Head Coach in United States

Former Uganda Cranes midfielder Michael Azira has been appointed head coach of the women’s soccer team at Copiah-Lincoln Community College in the United States.

The college confirmed the appointment through its official social media platforms, welcoming the former Ugandan international to his new role.

“Please join us in welcoming Michael Azira as the new head women’s soccer coach,” the institution announced.

Azira joins Copiah-Lincoln Community College after serving as an assistant coach at the University of Mobile, where he gained valuable experience in collegiate football.

Copiah-Lincoln Community College is one of the respected institutions in the United States and continues to invest heavily in the development of its athletics programs across various sports disciplines.

Azira’s team competes in the NJCAA Division and plays in the South Division of the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference.

In October 2021, Azira became a naturalised United States citizen in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

During his playing career in the United States, he represented nine different clubs and won the USL Pro Championship with the Charleston Battery in 2012.

Before transitioning fully into coaching, Azira had already begun working with youth football programmes in the United States. In 2011, while still an active player, he helped guide UMS-Wright to a state title.

Born in Uganda, Azira represented the Uganda national football team at the 2017 and 2019 Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and earned 10 caps for the Cranes.

The 38-year-old announced his retirement from international football in April 2021 before embarking on a coaching career, where he is now regarded as one of the promising coaches in the United States.

Beyond football, Azira is also involved in youth development through the Michael Azira Foundation, based in Bukomero, Kiboga District.

The foundation supports young Ugandans in pursuing their dreams through football and education.