Kelly Pierce, a former player and coach for women’s soccer team FC Tucson, has died suddenly at the age of 43.
The team made the announcement on Saturday. According to Tucson.Com, she died on Friday at the age of 43 from sudden cardiac arrest.
‘Kelly was a talented and charismatic leader both as a player and a coach,’ Tuscon founder Jon Pearlman said in a statement.
‘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.’
Pierce, who was coaching at Salpointe Catholic High School, leaves behind three sons and a partner, Joey. She won six state championships in eight years at Salpointe and also played for the team in her youth.
‘It is with heavy hearts that the Salpointe community shares the news of varsity women’s soccer Coach Kelly Pierce’s passing,’ the school said.
Beloved Tucson women’s soccer coach Kelly Pierce, a mother of three, has died suddenly
Piece was working as a soccer coach at Salpointe Catholic High School upon her passing
‘Kelly was a member of the class of 1999 and led the Lancers to six state championships in the past eight years.
‘Our prayers are with her sons Tyler, Brady and Camden, partner Joey Bernier, brother Jeff Pierce (member of our football coaching staff), her large extended family and the players that she loved so much.’
The current Tucson women’s head coach Caylee Carter said Pierce was ‘a role model who paved the way for female equality in the community.’
Carter added: ‘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.’
Pierce played for FC Tucson from 2013-18 and coached the team from 2019 until 2023.
‘Her dedication and passion for the beautiful game were unrivaled, and her impact on her players and the community reached far beyond the pitch,’ Tuscon added in their statement.
