Arizona Women’s Soccer Coach Kelly Pierce Dies Suddenly at 43

Kelly Pierce, a prominent figure in Southern Arizona women's soccer, died suddenly at age 43 due to cardiac arrest. She had a significant impact both as a player and coach for FC Tucson Women, leading the team to a first-place finish in the WPSL Big Sky North Division as a player and later winning two WPSL Desert Conference titles as head coach from 2019 to 2023. Pierce was also highly successful as the girls' soccer coach at Salpointe Catholic High School, guiding the team to six 4A state championships over eight years, including the most recent in 2025. FC Tucson Founder Jon Pearlman and current head coach Caylee Carter praised Pierce's leadership, dedication to gender equality in sports, and her devotion as a mother and advocate for children. In addition to FC Tucson and Salpointe, she coached at Mountain View High School and was deeply respected in the local soccer community. Pierce is survived by her three sons, Tyler, Brady, and Camden.