The Seattle community is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Cooper Woolston, a beloved former lacrosse player whose vibrant spirit touched countless lives.
Known for his dedication to the game, kind heart, and relentless drive, Cooper’s unexpected passing has left friends, family, teammates, and colleagues in shock.
Although the reason for his sudden death remains undisclosed, the outpouring of love and memories from those who knew him creates a picture of a man who lived fully and inspired others at every turn.
Woolston Was A Seattle Native Who Had A Passion For Sports From A Young Age
Cooper Woolston was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, the son of Robyn and V. Lee Woolston.
Growing up alongside his two older sisters, Cooper’s childhood was filled with the sounds of a lacrosse ball banging against the garage door, a noise his family patiently tolerated as he honed his craft.
His love for sports started early. Before discovering lacrosse, he played baseball until fourth grade.
But everything changed when he saw his neighbor playing lacrosse. From that moment, he was hooked.
Cooper picked up a stick and never looked back. He practiced tirelessly, treating the stick like a conductor’s baton as he directed his symphony of skill and determination.
His parents recall how he studied the game obsessively, watching every match he could find on TV.
That dedication paid off. By the time he reached University Preparatory Academy (U-Prep), Cooper was already a standout athlete.
At U-Prep, he didn’t limit himself to lacrosse. He shone as the point guard on the freshman basketball team and played tennis for the Class 1A Pumas during his final two high school years, when the sport’s season shifted to fall and no longer clashed with lacrosse.
His strong work ethic and ability to adapt made him a powerful competitor in many sports.
He joined Nathan Hale, a club team that included players from U-Prep and Ingraham High School, and quickly became one of the best in the area.
As an attack player, he helped lead Nathan Hale to an impressive 11-2-0 record, topping the Metro Conference and positioning the team as a strong contender for the Division II state championship.
His high energy inspired his teammates. He gave his best effort in every drill and encouraged those around him.
His talent caught the attention of Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania, a prestigious school with a competitive lacrosse program.
In 2013, Cooper headed east to pursue his education and continue his lacrosse journey.
Cooper faced a personal challenge when he used a prosthetic. This shows his resilience, a quality that defined him both on and off the field.
At Swarthmore, Cooper thrived. He played attack for the men’s lacrosse team while earning his degree in engineering, graduating in 2017.
Balancing academics and athletics, his leadership and infectious enthusiasm left a lasting impression on his teammates and coaches.
After College, Cooper returned to Seattle, bringing his skills and passion back to his hometown.
He dove into a career in engineering, landing a job as a VDC (Virtual Design and Construction) project engineer at Venture General Contracting.
By July 2020, he had stepped into a new role at the same company, continuing to grow professionally while staying connected to the community he loved.
But Cooper’s impact stretched far beyond his 9-to-5.
He took on the head coach role for Nathan Hale Lacrosse and CitySideLax, mentoring young players with the same intensity and care he’d once poured into his own game.
Coaching wasn’t just a job for him but a way to give back. He inspired his players to push their limits, just as he always had.
Cooper found joy in sharing his knowledge and love for the world around him outside of work and coaching.
He taught snowboarding classes, patiently and encouraging beginners down the slopes.
He also volunteered as an interpreter at the Seattle Aquarium for two months, conducting tours and connecting visitors with the wonders of marine life.
Cooper’s vibrant energy shone through whether he was on the field, in the mountains, or by the water.
Cooper Woolston Has Died Unexpectedly, Leaving Those Who Knew Him With A Deep Sense Of Loss
CitySideLax, where he coached, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media:
“WE LOVE YOU COOP!
Via Instagram
Even though your time with us was shorter than we wished, you left a lasting impact on our lives. You helped so many people and inspired us all. We’ll never forget the amazing memories we made together. You’ll be deeply missed, but you will live on in our hearts. Rest in peace Cooper 🕊️”
Friends and teammates remember him as more than just a talented athlete. He was a friend who lifted others, a coach who believed in his players, and a son and brother who made his family proud.
His kindhearted nature and commitment to building connections created a network of people who will carry his memory forward.
Though the cause of Cooper’s passing remains private, the focus has moved to celebrating his life.
Cooper lived purposefully, inspiring others and leaving a legacy of hard work and love.
He challenged himself, inspired others, and left behind a legacy of hard work and love.
As the Seattle community mourns, it also honors the man who gave so much.
Cooper Woolston’s death is a great loss. However, we will always remember his life, which was full of passion, resilience, and joy.
Rest in peace, Coop.
