Beloved Coach and Trailblazer Kelly Pierce Passes Away Suddenly – Tucson Soccer Community in Mourning
TUCSON, ARIZONA — The Southern Arizona soccer community is reeling from the heartbreaking and sudden loss of Kelly Pierce, a beloved figure in women’s soccer who passed away unexpectedly on Sunday. Pierce, a former standout player and head coach for FC Tucson Women, was widely respected not only for her accomplishments on the field but for her unwavering dedication to empowering young athletes, especially girls and women, in the sport.
Kelly Pierce’s impact on soccer in Tucson and beyond spanned more than a decade. As a captain and key player for TSA and FC Tucson Women between 2013 and 2018, she was known for her grit, intelligence, and leadership on the pitch. From 2019 to 2023, she served as head coach for the FC Tucson Women’s team, helping shape the next generation of athletes through her passionate and strategic coaching style.
Her contributions didn’t stop there. Pierce was the head coach at Salpointe Catholic High School, where she led her teams to six 4A state championships in just eight years, an achievement that cemented her as one of the most successful and respected coaches in Arizona high school sports history.
But Kelly’s influence reached far beyond wins and trophies. She was a mentor, advocate, and champion for gender equality in sports, working tirelessly to ensure that women and girls had the same opportunities, recognition, and support as their male counterparts. Her commitment to building an inclusive, competitive, and empowering environment in Southern Arizona transformed the landscape of women’s soccer in the region.
“Kelly was a talented and charismatic leader both as a player and a coach. She was committed to elevating not just women’s soccer but all women’s sports as a champion for gender equality. Most importantly, Kelly was a devoted mother and fierce advocate for not just her children or young female soccer players, but all children. The FC Tucson community and Southern Arizona soccer community collectively mourns this tragic loss,” said Jon Pearlman, FC Tucson Founder/President/CEO.
Caylee Carter, the current head coach of FC Tucson Women, reflected on her time with Kelly:
“I first met Kelly as a teammate in 2016 and quickly came to admire her leadership both on and off the field; her strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication stood out not just as a player but as a person. In the years that followed, she became my coach, guiding our program with passion and purpose. Kelly was a role model who paved the way for female equality in the Tucson soccer community and inspired young girls and women to stand strong, be powerful, and fight for what they deserve. I am heartbroken by her sudden passing. She leaves behind more than a legacy—she leaves behind a community of players, coaches, friends, and family who will miss her deeply.”
A devoted mother, a trusted friend, and a relentless leader, Kelly Pierce leaves behind a community forever shaped by her presence, love, and leadership. Her loss is felt deeply not only in Tucson but across the soccer world.
Details regarding memorial services will be shared by FC Tucson and her family in the coming days. In the meantime, tributes continue to pour in from players, coaches, and fans who say they will carry her memory in every match, every team huddle, and every dream they chase.
Rest in peace, Kelly Pierce — your passion, strength, and voice will echo through generations to come.