The Southern Arizona soccer community is mourning the sudden loss of renowned women’s soccer coach, Kelly Pierce, who passed away at the age of 43 due to an unexpected cardiac arrest. Pierce was a former player and later became the head coach of FC Tucson Women, an amateur soccer club based in Arizona.
During her tenure as a player for FC Tucson Women from 2013 to 2018, Pierce was a team captain and instrumental in leading the club to a first-place finish in the WPSL Big Sky North Division in 2013. Her leadership skills were not only evident on the field but also off the field, where she was known for her dedication and resilience.
Pierce continued her successful career in soccer as the head coach of FC Tucson Women from 2019 to 2023. Under her leadership, the club won two WPSL Desert Conference titles. FC Tucson Founder and President Jon Pearlman praised Pierce as a talented and charismatic leader who was committed to elevating not just women’s soccer but all women’s sports as a champion for gender equality.
Beyond her contributions to the soccer field, Pierce was also a devoted mother and a fierce advocate for children. She was particularly passionate about supporting young female soccer players and promoting their interests.
Pierce also had a successful stint as a high school soccer coach for Salpointe Catholic, where she led the women’s team to four state championships during her eight-year tenure. During her playing days at FC Tucson Women, Pierce also served as the head coach of the women’s soccer program at Mountain View High School in Tucson.
Caylee Carter, the current head coach of FC Tucson Women, expressed her admiration for Pierce. She recalled meeting Pierce as a teammate in 2016 and being inspired by her leadership, strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication.
Pierce is survived by her three sons, Tyler, 22; Brady, 17; and Camden, 14. Her sudden passing has left a significant void in the Southern Arizona soccer community, but her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of soccer players.