Arriaga Named Head Men's Soccer Coach

Decatur, AL – Director of Athletics, AJ Daugherty has announced the hiring of Alexis Arriaga as Calhoun's new Head Men's Soccer Coach, effective immediately. Arriaga will begin leading the Warhawks program and organizing recruiting efforts ahead of the upcoming season.

Arriaga brings a player-development and discipline-driven approach to the program, with coaching experience across NCAA Division II, NJCAA, and USL League Two levels.

Most recently as an assistant coach at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Arriaga helped guide the Chargers to a berth in the Gulf South Conference (GSC) quarterfinals. His contributions were instrumental in team organization and player development throughout the season.

Prior to UAH, Arriaga spent two seasons (2023–25) as an assistant coach at Auburn University at Montgomery, where he played a key role in one of the most successful stretches in program history. During his tenure, the AUM Warhawks captured the Gulf South Conference Championship for the first time in program history and advanced to the NCAA Division II National Tournament for the second time, while consistently competing at the top of the league. He contributed across all aspects of the program while helping develop one of the top defensive units in the conference.

Before returning to AUM, Arriaga gained NJCAA coaching experience at Iowa Lakes and Indian Hills, contributing to the development of multiple All-Region selections, an All-American, and a Region 6 Player of the Year, while helping guide Iowa Lakes to a third-place finish at the NJCAA National Tournament.

In addition to his collegiate experience, Arriaga spent two seasons with the Ocean City Nor'easters, helping the club secure back-to-back Mid-Atlantic Division titles.

A former student-athlete at AUM, Arriaga holds a bachelor's degree in International Economics from Auburn University at Montgomery and is currently pursuing his master's degree. He also holds a United States Soccer Federation "C" License.

Born in Mexico, Arriaga was raised and resides in Hunstville.

"Coach Arriaga brings a strong vision for player development, a passion for the game, and a commitment to academic and athletic excellence that aligns perfectly with our mission and what we are building at Calhoun," remarked Director of Athletics, AJ Daugherty. We're excited to welcome him to our program and look forward to the leadership, energy, and competitive spirit he will bring to our men's soccer team."

Arriaga shared his excitement: "I'm grateful for this opportunity to lead and build the men's soccer program at Calhoun. Our focus will be on building a disciplined, competitive culture while developing our student-athletes on and off the field. I'm excited to get to work and connect with our players and community, and build a culture where tactics are adaptable, and effort is non-negotiable."