EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Director of Athletics Jason Verdugo announced the hiring of Courtney "CJ" Puhl as the university's Head Women's Lacrosse Coach on Monday.

Puhl served as an assistant coach with the Blugolds in 2024 and 2025, including a stint as interim head coach at the end of the 2025 campaign. She helped UW-Eau Claire finish as the runner-up at the WIAC Tournament this spring. The Blugolds posted a 23-12 record over the last two seasons with Puhl on the coaching staff.

"CJ has shown a remarkable dedication to developing our student-athletes both on the field and in the classroom," Verdugo said. "I am confident that her commitment to their holistic development will ensure the program's continued growth and the production of consistently competitive teams."

Prior to her UW-Eau Claire experience, Puhl coached high school lacrosse teams for Hudson High School (Wis.) and Coronado High School (Nev.) between 2018-2023. She helped both programs earn state runner-up finishes — Hudson in 2022 and Coronado in 2023. She also has extensive experience coaching in the club game.

"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," Puhl said. "There is so much talent in our community and I am excited to continue this journey with the Blugolds."

Puhl was a four-year lacrosse player in high school and played one season for Augustana College at the Division III level.

In addition to her work as a lacrosse coach, Puhl has worked in education for several years. Most recently, she has worked with Four Lakes Education and Wisconsin Virtual Academy as a virtual education case manager.