Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Michael Ayala has built a career combining psychology, mental health, and athletics. After earning his associate degree from Southwestern Oregon Community College, he graduated from the University of Providence with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Michael currently serves as a professor of MLO 101 and the head women’s wrestling coach at Menlo College. His teaching philosophy emphasizes active student engagement, encouraging classmates to interact and take meaningful lessons from each session. As a coach, Michael believes in fostering an environment where athletes have fun while continuously striving to improve. Under his leadership, the women’s wrestling team earned the 2024 NAIA Team National Championship. Coach Ayala won 2024 NAIA, NWCA, and Cascade Coach of the Year honors. Outside of work, he enjoys watching wrestling and football, and relaxing while listening to podcasts.
