How Cooper Penoyer found his voice to shape the culture of CU club lacrosse

Being a captain for the Colorado Buffaloes has meant everything to Cooper Penoyer (#55), who grew up in a lacrosse family but once struggled with his love for the sport. (Photo by Fidel Gonzalez/Sko Buffs Sports)

As a high school freshman, Cooper Penoyer loathed lacrosse practice, complaining until his dad took away the privilege of going altogether. Rather than celebrating, Penoyer realized the importance of attitude and showing up for his teammates, a lesson that continues to influence his leadership today. 

Now in his second season with the University of Colorado’s men’s club lacrosse team, Penoyer guides his team as captain with principles shaped by a lifelong lacrosse career. His journey from youngest in a lacrosse family to one of four team captains selected last fall reflects how his leadership extends beyond the field and into a culture. 

“Sometimes it's bigger than yourself,” Penoyer said. “Sometimes you have to speak out, and every team needs those guys that are gonna push people to be their best selves, even in moments you may not be liked.” 

This fall, Penoyer’s teammates voted him one of four captains, a role reflecting his commitment to lacrosse and his growth as a player and leader.  

Penoyer joined the team as a sophomore after transferring from Canisius University in Buffalo, New Yorkew York, where he played Division I lacrosse. 

Brought up two hours down the road in Syracuse, his parents raised him alongside his three older siblings, which fostered a love for competition and teamwork.

“I grew up with an extremely type-A dad,” who was also a DI lacrosse player, Penoyer said. “Things were done his way, and I might not have seen them as the way I wanted to do things or the right way. But looking back, he was instilling values and morals in me to work hard, showing that nothing comes easy without hard work and consistency.” 

His sister, Olivia Penoyer, another former DI lacrosse player, said her brother’s role in the family also shaped his team-oriented mindset. 

“Growing up as the youngest of four forced Cooper to both establish his own voice and to advocate for himself,” she said. “Not only did he step into this role within our family, but it made him a leader in different facets, speaking up for others, bringing people together, mediating and collaborating on hard conversations.” 

Initially an underclassman new to CU’s program, Penoyer struggled to find his voice. But after a difficult season, he said he took initiative, driven by frustration and motivation, to become an outspoken leader. 

He began holding his team and himself accountable, becoming more vocal in practices and games. Despite initial reservations, he stepped into a leadership role when his team needed it.

Penoyer said his drive and commitment to his team’s success ultimately led him to become the program’s only junior captain for the 2026 season. 

Since then, his impact has been evident, and he credits it to his family and the values they instilled.

As captain, Penoyer steadfastly supports his teammates. His responsibilities range from assisting coaches with practices to answering late-night phone calls from struggling teammates. His willingness to listen allows him to serve as a liaison between coaches and players. 

Nolan Rabb, a sophomore on the team, emphasized Penoyer’s personable leadership style this season. 

“Cooper has been an amazing captain for us all year, on and off the field. Not only is he a great offensive leader, but he is also always available for each and every one of us if we ever need anything,” Rabb said.

Penoyer not only found his voice on the field, but also used it to elevate his teammates as both lacrosse players and people. 

“Being a captain, I hope to be someone that the other guys feel like they can come to about anything,” Penoyer said. “Empathy plays a huge role in that. Having a personal relationship with the guys helps me drive the team as a whole toward success.”