The 2019 seasons begins the Josh Macharia era leading the Arizona Christian Women’s Soccer program. Coach Macharia spent 12 years as the top assistant coach for the NAIA women’s soccer powerhouse Olivet Nazarene University.
While on the field results are important, Coach Macharia (pronounced Mah-cherry-ah) believes the key to success is how his team identifies with Christ. A Christ centered approach creates a team first attitude that shows up in the classroom and on the field.
From 2006-2018, Coach Macharia spearheaded recruiting and assisted in daily operation for the ONU program that has amassed 191 wins. In that same span, the Tigers made six appearances in the NAIA National tournament including finishing as the national runner-up in 2012. Olivet Nazarene made two appearances in the NCCAA national championship match- winning the title in 2008.
For his work with his team, Macharia was named the Midwest Regional Assistant Coach of the Year by the NSCAA back in 2012.
The Tigers earned NAIA Team Scholar honors every year since the program started that include several years with their team GPA 3.5 or higher.
One of his biggest coaching passions is recruiting as evident by his desire to build close relationships with not only his players but their families as well. As a licensed minister, Coach Macharia has performed the wedding of three former players.
Along with coaching at ONU, Macharia has served as the Youth Pastor of College Church of the Nazarene University Avenue since 2014. He has also coached at the high school and club levels.
The Kenyan native is fluent in six languages.
Academically, Coach Macharia earned a bachelor’s degree in Youth Ministry from Olivet Nazarene University in May 2018. He is currently working on a master’s degree in Urban Ministry.
Macharia’s biggest fan is his wife, Melissa. They have a son named James. His wife and son often join him on recruiting trips and are found at most games.
