News Summary

The Southern Arizona soccer community is in grief after the untimely passing of Kelly Pierce, a cherished coach who influenced countless players and families. At the age of 44, her sudden demise on August 1 due to cardiac arrest has left a profound impact on those she inspired through her coaching at Salpointe Catholic High School and FC Tucson Women. Known for her advocacy for women’s sports and her remarkable legacy of state championships, Kelly’s commitment to soccer and the empowerment of female athletes will be remembered by many.

Southern Arizona Soccer Community in Deep Mourning After Coach Kelly Pierce’s Sudden Passing

The residents of Southern Arizona are reeling after the shocking loss of a beloved sports figure, Kelly Pierce, who passed away unexpectedly on August 1 at the young age of 44 due to cardiac arrest. A powerhouse in the soccer scene, Kelly’s impact resonated deeply with players, families, and fans throughout the community.

A Legacy Built on Championships

Kelly Pierce was more than just a coach; she was the heart and soul of soccer in Southern Arizona. Between 2018 and 2025, she led the Salpointe Catholic High School girls soccer team to an impressive six state championships. Her coaching prowess was built on a foundation of her own success as a player when she won two state championships with the same school back in 1998 and 1999.

Beyond high school, Kelly contributed to the soccer community by coaching the FC Tucson Women team from 2019 until earlier this year. Her time with FC Tucson Women, where she also played from 2013 to 2018, highlighted her dedication to the game and to fostering the next generation of female athletes.

Championing Women in Sports

Known as “the most accomplished female soccer figure in Southern Arizona history,” as described by local sports commentators, Kelly was a fierce advocate for women’s sports and gender equality. Her influence stretched across various youth soccer programs for nearly two decades, including her roles at Pima Community College, Mountain View High School, the CDO Soccer League, and of course, FC Tucson. Her mission was clear: to elevate girls’ soccer in Tucson and empower young women to reach their full potential in sports.

Community Response and Support

In the wake of her passing, community members have rallied together to support Kelly’s family. A GoFundMe campaign organized to help, initiated by Rebecca Collins, has already raised over $29,000, far exceeding its original goal of $10,000. This outpouring of support illustrates just how much Kelly meant to the community and demonstrates the widespread admiration she garnered throughout her career.

A Family Devoted to Soccer

Kelly leaves behind three sons: Tyler, who is 22, Brady, 17, and Camden, just 14. Her family conveyed that she was not just a devoted mother but also someone who knew her life’s purpose. Her commitment to family, soccer, and instilling self-confidence in young women was evident in everything she did.

A Lasting Impact

Her collaboration with various organizations, including a notable partnership with Real Salt Lake Soccer, resulted in countless opportunities for aspiring female athletes in the area. In her capacity as the Women’s Director of Coaching at the CDO Soccer Alliance, she worked tirelessly to promote and advance girls’ soccer in Tucson.

As the local soccer community gathers to remember Kelly Pierce, tributes continue to pour in, highlighting her leadership, strength, and the profound impact she had on girls’ soccer. Friends, players, and families in Southern Arizona will carry on her legacy by nurturing the next generation of soccer stars, ensuring her spirit lives on in the sport she loved so much.

Through shared memories and heartfelt stories, Kelly’s influence will undoubtedly be felt for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the beautiful game in Southern Arizona.

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