In the vibrant heart of Houston’s sports community, excitement is growing as the Houston Sports Awards prepare for their grand return on Jan. 30. The spotlight is set to illuminate athletic excellence, and among the stars, Houston Dash Forward Michelle Alozia shines brightly as a nominee for the Community Impact Award.
Recently, KPRC 2 Sports Director Randy McIlvoy had the privilege of sitting down with Alozie to delve into a narrative that goes beyond sports achievements. Beyond her prowess on the pitch, Alozie’s story is a testament to resilience, passion, and a commitment to making a difference.
Having quickly made her mark in the National Women’s Soccer League, Alozie’s journey to Houston was fueled by a dream and an unwavering determination for opportunity. When the Dash provided that opportunity in 2022, she didn’t hesitate to pack up and make the Bayou City her new home.
Reflecting on her time in Houston, Alozie expressed, “It’s so amazing. I feel so comfortable here. I feel like I owe Houston a lot. I want to bring championships here. I want to work so hard for Houston and to make Houston proud here and wherever I go.”
Her connection to Houston goes beyond the soccer field, with a strong Nigerian presence in the city that made her feel at home from day one. “I have close family here. And so it’s really a home away from home. I’m able to get in touch with my Nigerian roots, play proudly as a Houston Dash member with Houston Dynamo FC. It’s just so amazing,” she shared.
Alozie’s love for life as a professional footballer is complemented by her academic achievements. A graduate of Yale University with a degree in molecular biology, she is not only making waves on the field but also in the medical research field.
“I love it because I think there’s such a parallel between playing sports and being in a lab setting, which people don’t think about,” Alozie remarked. Currently working as a cancer research technician at Houston’s Texas Children’s Hospital, she focuses on acute myeloid leukemia, a specific type that affects many children, but unfortunately, has limited research.
Alozie’s dedication to finding a cure for children’s cancer is evident as she shared, “It is so fulfilling. Like I can’t even really put it into words because, you know, they’re just a kid, you know, and they’re just fighting so hard. They’re just looking for hope. And to see that I can help them even 1% is everything, and I just love what I do.”
Balancing a career in soccer and medicine is no small feat, but Alozie is not just making it happen; she’s making a significant impact. Becoming a nominee for the Community Impact Award is humbling for her. She sees it as recognition for her efforts both on and off the field, a testament to the fulfillment she finds in her work at Texas Children’s Hospital.
“Coming here and also working at Texas Children’s is just so fulfilling to me, and to see it being recognized, even though I’m doing what I love to do, feels amazing. I’m so thankful and grateful to be nominated,” Alozie expressed with genuine gratitude.
As the Houston Sports Awards approach, all eyes will be on Alozie – a Dynamo not only in her athletic prowess but also in her impact on the community.
Join the celebration: Houston Sports Awards await!
The anticipation for the Houston Sports Awards on Jan. 30 is palpable, and we extend a warm invitation for you to join us for this celebration. Randy McIlvoy, KPRC 2 Sports Director, alongside Sports Reporters Chancellor Johnson and Ari Alexander will be at the event. Together, they will capture the essence of the evening and bring you closer to the heart of Houston’s sports scene.
Hosting the event is none other than Lance McCullers Jr., who will guide us through an unforgettable night of honoring excellence in sports. The Houston Sports Hall of Fame will welcome new inductees Lance Berkman, Cynthia Cooper, and Warren Moon, legends whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the city’s sporting history.
The excitement doesn’t end there—some of the biggest names and current sports sensations, including C.J. Stroud and José Altuve, are in the running for prestigious awards. It’s a star-studded affair that promises not only recognition for athletic achievements but also moments that will resonate in the hearts of sports enthusiasts.
This year, we’re thrilled to introduce an exclusive opportunity for KPRC 2 Insiders (ages 21+). Gain access to the Red Carpet zone, an area typically off-limits to the general public. With your ticket, you’ll have the chance to be up close and personal, capturing the glamour and glitz as your favorite sports stars make their way down the red carpet. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of the excitement!
For those eager to be part of the celebration, tickets are on sale now. Secure your spot at https://www.click2houston.com/topic/Houston_Sports_Awards/, where you can find more information and purchase your tickets.