University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire has appointed Courtney “CJ” Puhl as the Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach, as announced by Director of Athletics Jason Verdugo. Puhl, who served as an assistant coach for the Blugolds in 2024 and 2025, also held the position of interim head coach at the end of the 2025 season. Under her guidance, UW-Eau Claire secured a runner-up position at the WIAC Tournament this spring, achieving a 23-12 record over two seasons.
“CJ has shown a remarkable dedication to developing our student-athletes both on the field and in the classroom,” stated Verdugo. “I am confident that her commitment to their holistic development will ensure the program’s continued growth and the production of consistently competitive teams.”
Before joining UW-Eau Claire, Puhl coached high school lacrosse at Hudson High School in Wisconsin and Coronado High School in Nevada from 2018 to 2023. She led both schools to state runner-up finishes—Hudson in 2022 and Coronado in 2023—and has significant experience coaching club lacrosse.
“I am so excited to continue to grow the game of lacrosse in the Chippewa Valley with such a talented and resilient group of women,” said Puhl. “There is so much talent in our community and I am excited to continue this journey with the Blugolds.”
Puhl played lacrosse for four years in high school and spent one season playing at Augustana College at the Division III level. Alongside her coaching career, she has worked extensively in education, most recently serving as a virtual education case manager with Four Lakes Education and Wisconsin Virtual Academy.
