FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 2, 2025
FC Tucson regrets to announce that former standout FC Tucson Women’s player and head coach, Kelly Pierce, has passed away suddenly today.
Kelly was a captain and standout player for TSA and FC Tucson women from 2013-2018, and served as the head coach of FC Tucson Women from 2019–2023. As head coach of Salpointe Catholic, Kelly led her teams to a remarkable 6 4A state championships in 8 years. Her dedication and passion for the beautiful game were unrivaled, and her impact on her players and the community reached far beyond the pitch.
As a leader, mentor, and trailblazer, Kelly inspired generations of young athletes, especially women and girls, to believe in themselves and pursue their goals with heart and determination. Her commitment to building a supportive and competitive environment helped elevate the women’s game in Southern Arizona and left an indelible legacy on the sport.
“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.” – Jon Pearlman, Founder/President//CEO
“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 she 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 but a community of players, coaches, friends and family who will miss her deeply.”- Caylee Carter, FC Tucson Women Head Coach.
Our thoughts are with her family, friends, former players and staff, as well as those who had the privilege of knowing and competing alongside her.
