Rising Stars: CU Buffs Shine in Pro Day and Lacrosse Season
April 6, 2025, 4:23 pm
In the world of sports, opportunity often knocks when least expected. For the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Buffs), recent events have showcased two athletes who embody this spirit: Will Sheppard in football and Madeline Pisani in women’s lacrosse. Both have faced challenges, yet their determination has propelled them into the spotlight.
Will Sheppard, a 6-foot-3 receiver, has made waves in the football world. His journey began at Vanderbilt, where he honed his skills before transferring to CU. In his single season with the Buffs, he caught 48 passes for 621 yards and six touchdowns. Despite solid numbers, he was overlooked for an NFL combine invite. This snub ignited a fire within him. Sheppard transformed disappointment into motivation, a chip on his shoulder that fueled his pro day performance.
On pro day, Sheppard showcased his athleticism. He leaped 40.5 inches, surpassing most of the receivers at the NFL combine. His broad jump of 10 feet, 11 inches was equally impressive. These feats were not mere numbers; they were statements. Sheppard proved he could soar above expectations. His 40-yard dash times of 4.56 and 4.54 seconds further solidified his status as a contender. Scouts took notice. CU head coach Deion Sanders praised his consistency and character, highlighting Sheppard’s ability to make plays in critical moments.
Sheppard’s versatility is his secret weapon. He’s not just a red zone target; he can run routes and gain yards after the catch. His confidence radiates as he speaks about his skills. He’s ready to adapt, to play wherever needed. This adaptability is crucial in the NFL, where roles can shift like sand.
Meanwhile, on the lacrosse field, Madeline Pisani is carving her own path. A fifth-year senior, she faced her share of struggles. Unlike many of her peers who burst onto the scene, Pisani took time to find her rhythm. Redshirting her freshman year, she played sparingly in her early seasons. Yet, she refused to be just a role player. She put in the work, practicing tirelessly after hours, honing her craft.
Last season, Pisani exploded onto the scene with 67 goals, trailing only CU’s all-time leader in goals. This year, she continues to shine, recently scoring seven goals in a single game. Her career total now stands at 125 points, inching her closer to CU’s top-10 all-time list. Pisani’s journey is a testament to perseverance. She transformed from a quiet contributor to a leading scorer, proving that hard work pays off.
Her coach, Ann Elliott Whidden, recognizes Pisani’s grit. The challenges she faced built her character. They taught her to execute under pressure. Now, she’s a key player, driving the Buffs forward in the Big 12 Conference. CU’s recent win against San Diego State marked a turning point. After a rocky start, the team is finding its footing, and Pisani is at the heart of it.
Both Sheppard and Pisani exemplify the spirit of the CU Buffs. They’ve faced adversity, yet they rise above it. Their stories are not just about individual success; they reflect the resilience of their teams. As Sheppard prepares for the NFL draft, and Pisani continues her season, they carry the hopes of their university.
The Buffs are not just athletes; they are warriors. They train hard, push limits, and strive for greatness. Sheppard’s pro day performance is a beacon for aspiring football players. It shows that determination can open doors, even when they seem closed. Pisani’s journey is a reminder that success doesn’t always come quickly. Sometimes, it’s a slow burn, fueled by passion and persistence.
As the CU Buffs continue their respective seasons, all eyes will be on these two rising stars. Sheppard’s NFL dreams hang in the balance, while Pisani aims for glory in the lacrosse arena. Their paths may differ, but their goals align: to excel, to inspire, and to leave a legacy.
In the grand tapestry of sports, these stories weave a narrative of hope and ambition. They remind us that every setback can be a setup for a comeback. The CU Buffs are not just participants; they are contenders. With athletes like Sheppard and Pisani leading the charge, the future looks bright. The journey is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.
Will Sheppard, a 6-foot-3 receiver, has made waves in the football world. His journey began at Vanderbilt, where he honed his skills before transferring to CU. In his single season with the Buffs, he caught 48 passes for 621 yards and six touchdowns. Despite solid numbers, he was overlooked for an NFL combine invite. This snub ignited a fire within him. Sheppard transformed disappointment into motivation, a chip on his shoulder that fueled his pro day performance.
On pro day, Sheppard showcased his athleticism. He leaped 40.5 inches, surpassing most of the receivers at the NFL combine. His broad jump of 10 feet, 11 inches was equally impressive. These feats were not mere numbers; they were statements. Sheppard proved he could soar above expectations. His 40-yard dash times of 4.56 and 4.54 seconds further solidified his status as a contender. Scouts took notice. CU head coach Deion Sanders praised his consistency and character, highlighting Sheppard’s ability to make plays in critical moments.
Sheppard’s versatility is his secret weapon. He’s not just a red zone target; he can run routes and gain yards after the catch. His confidence radiates as he speaks about his skills. He’s ready to adapt, to play wherever needed. This adaptability is crucial in the NFL, where roles can shift like sand.
Meanwhile, on the lacrosse field, Madeline Pisani is carving her own path. A fifth-year senior, she faced her share of struggles. Unlike many of her peers who burst onto the scene, Pisani took time to find her rhythm. Redshirting her freshman year, she played sparingly in her early seasons. Yet, she refused to be just a role player. She put in the work, practicing tirelessly after hours, honing her craft.
Last season, Pisani exploded onto the scene with 67 goals, trailing only CU’s all-time leader in goals. This year, she continues to shine, recently scoring seven goals in a single game. Her career total now stands at 125 points, inching her closer to CU’s top-10 all-time list. Pisani’s journey is a testament to perseverance. She transformed from a quiet contributor to a leading scorer, proving that hard work pays off.
Her coach, Ann Elliott Whidden, recognizes Pisani’s grit. The challenges she faced built her character. They taught her to execute under pressure. Now, she’s a key player, driving the Buffs forward in the Big 12 Conference. CU’s recent win against San Diego State marked a turning point. After a rocky start, the team is finding its footing, and Pisani is at the heart of it.
Both Sheppard and Pisani exemplify the spirit of the CU Buffs. They’ve faced adversity, yet they rise above it. Their stories are not just about individual success; they reflect the resilience of their teams. As Sheppard prepares for the NFL draft, and Pisani continues her season, they carry the hopes of their university.
The Buffs are not just athletes; they are warriors. They train hard, push limits, and strive for greatness. Sheppard’s pro day performance is a beacon for aspiring football players. It shows that determination can open doors, even when they seem closed. Pisani’s journey is a reminder that success doesn’t always come quickly. Sometimes, it’s a slow burn, fueled by passion and persistence.
As the CU Buffs continue their respective seasons, all eyes will be on these two rising stars. Sheppard’s NFL dreams hang in the balance, while Pisani aims for glory in the lacrosse arena. Their paths may differ, but their goals align: to excel, to inspire, and to leave a legacy.
In the grand tapestry of sports, these stories weave a narrative of hope and ambition. They remind us that every setback can be a setup for a comeback. The CU Buffs are not just participants; they are contenders. With athletes like Sheppard and Pisani leading the charge, the future looks bright. The journey is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.