Utah Soccer Coach Jair Celis’ Mexican Parents, Esteban and Araceli, and Three Siblings Find Relief After He Is Granted Bond
Celis came to the U.S. legally as a teenager and overstayed his visa, and he later married an American citizen.
December 16, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 16, 2026
Jair Celis, who has been a popular soccer coach in Sandy, was born to his Mexican parents.
Celis, who was arrested by ICE and wrongly accused by Homeland Security of being a “sodomite and a child abuser,” was granted bond on Monday, December 15, 2026.
Adam Crayk, Celis’s attorney, ,
“The judge was very good,” “She just flat out said, ‘Look, I can’t consider something that’s a verbal representation. There’s been no filing here. There’s been nothing submitted to show anything other than exactly what his attorney is saying. And that is, look at all the years that he’s been here, look at all the people that are in favor of him. I’m granting bond in the amount of $5,000, and if the government wants to appeal, we can leave it open for appeal, but the bond is granted for 5,000.’”
His bond hearing was held virtually on Monday, and he has one more hearing on Tuesday morning.
Once the bond is paid, Crayk expects to be back home in Utah by Tuesday or Wednesday.
Crayk said he still plans to seek legal action against Tricia McLaughlin with Homeland Security for insisting and publicly declaring Celis is a “sodomite and child abuser” when there is no evidence of that.
Celis came to the U.S. legally as a teenager and overstayed his visa, and he later married an American citizen.
Because of that, under immigration law, he was entitled to try to become a permanent resident.
He was on the final step of the green card process, which is an interview, when he was detained by ICE agents and transported to an immigration detention facility in Arizona.
Andy Armstrong, an immigration attorney, said that he has no criminal record or history that would make him eligible for a green card.
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Soccer Coach Jair Celis’s Parents Hold Mexican Nationality
Jair Celis, 30, was born in 1996 to his father, Esteban, and his mother, Araceli Lecuona Ortega.
His parents live in Mexico and hold Mexican nationality.
However, Jair moved to the United States as a teenager and married an American citizen to become a permanent citizen, but later he was detained by ICE agents.
While Jair’s father, Esteban, has stayed away from social media highlights, his mother, Araceli, frequently posts a photo with Esteban on her official Facebook handle.
On July 19, 2026, Araceli took to her Facebook and posted the glimpses of her trip to Tampico with her husband, Esteban. She ,
En nuestro Tampico Querido!!!
Esteban and Araceli have always supported Jair in achieving his personal and professional goals.
Recently, Jair’s parents got relief as he was granted a bond after being accused by Homeland Security of being a “sodomite and a child abuser.”
Coach Jair Celis Grew Up With His Three Siblings
Soccer coach Jair Celis has one brother, Esteban Celis Lecuona, and two sisters, Xiomara R Celis Kingsford and Keyla Celis Holt.
As per Xiomara’s handle, she lives in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, with her family.
On the other hand, Keyla has stayed away from social media.
Like a brother, Jair, Esteban is also involved in sports. He is serving as an exceptional Pickleball coach.
Esteban tied the knot with McKayla Sander Celis on November 11, 2026. He took to his Instagram handle to announce the news.
November 11 will forever be a special day in my heart. It was on this day that McKayla and I went on our very first date, and every year since, this date has held more meaning and love. I am so thankful for you, McKayla. You’re an incredible wife, daughter, and sister who shows kindness, love, and compassion to everyone around you when they need it the most. I love you, and I’m grateful every day that you’re by my side. ❤️
On September 2, 2026, Esteban announced that they are welcoming their first baby in November 2026. He took to his Instagram and wrote,
November 18th!!!!!!!!!!! 👶🏻🍼
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Coach Jair Celis and his American wife, Lexie Coletti Celis, shared a 4-year-old son.
- Celis attended Olympus High School, where he played soccer and won a UHSAA state title.
- Jair’s hometown is Monterrey, Mexico. He stands 6 feet tall.
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Rohit Maharjan is a skilled content writer and editor, known for his expertise in crafting engaging and informative written pieces. Beyond his professional work, Rohit is also a passionate musician, dedicating his free time to playing the guitar and creating melodious tunes.
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