Mesa, AZ — Seven months ago, Salpointe lost more than a coach. The passing of legendary head coach Kelly Pierce shook the entire Lancer community. It left a program grieving, searching, and leaning on each other in ways they never had before. What followed wasn’t just a season. It was a response. Former Lancer and Pierce’s friend, Jessica Rushton, stepped in and carried the weight of a program determined to honor its legacy. And on Friday night at Mesa High School, that journey came full circle. Salpointe is a 4A State Champion. In a battle worthy of the stage, the No. 2 Lancers defeated top-seeded Crismon 5-4 in penalty kicks after 100 intense minutes. It wasn’t easy. It wasn’t clean. It was earned. Despite outshooting the Rattlers 13-3, Salpointe couldn’t find the winner in regulation. So it came down to composure — and belief. Senior keeper Ani Jimenez delivered the save of the season in PKs, and Emma Cazares buried the championship-clinching kick to seal it. The Lancers stayed patient. They kept pressing. They trusted the moment. And when it mattered most, they finished. This title means more. It’s about resilience. It’s about legacy. It’s about a team that refused to let heartbreak define them. Next year, Salpointe moves up to 5A. They’ve already proven they belong, battling top programs across higher conferences all season long. But for now? This one is for Coach Pierce. This one is for the Lancer family. This one is forever. ⚔️🏆