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Carter Administration Enters Stage: FC Tucson Women Kick Off Home Season Sunday with Fresh Leadership

FC Tucson’s women’s team is set to launch their home season on Sunday with a match against El Paso Surf. This game marks the culmination of a busy week, featuring three matches in total.
Previously, the squad faced Arizona Arsenal in an away game in Mesa on Wednesday, securing a solid 2-0 victory. Remarkably, this win came just a day after Caylee Carter, previously an assistant coach, took over as head coach.
“I wouldn’t say that it was a difficult transition,” Carter stated, noting her deep familiarity with the team. “I was heavily involved in building this group, and my prior experience really assisted me. However, it was still a stressful situation.”
Meredith Scott, a returning player, scored during Wednesday’s match and appreciates the opportunity to play under Carter’s guidance. “Caylee did an amazing job recruiting, and I’m surrounded by great players who trust me, and I trust them,” she commented. “When you trust your teammates, there’s bound to be success.”
Scott, who joined the team as a high school player, now finds herself in a leadership role, guiding younger teammates aged 16 to 18. “I’ve had to step into a leadership role more than in years past,” she explained. “We used to play with more experienced players, but this year is different.”
Ryan Hall, who recently became head coach of FC Tucson, will maintain his connection with the youth academy. Carter’s promotion marks the team’s first female head coach since Kelly Pearce departed in 2024. “It’s a unique perspective that players may not have encountered in previous programs,” Carter remarked. “Having a female coach can establish a level of trust and inspire players, especially those with aspirations in the sport.”
FC Tucson’s recent victory places them second in the Desert Conference, narrowly trailing Royals AZ. The upcoming match against the Royals is crucial for the standings. The team will return to Tucson to play El Paso Surf at Kino North Stadium on Sunday at 7 p.m.