Former Lewis Captain Baden Boyenko Dies Unexpectedly

Former Lewis men's lacrosse player Baden Boyenko has died unexpectedly, the school announced Wednesday. 

Boyenko, 29, graduated in 2024 after compiling 84 goals and 57 assists over his three-year career. The Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, native was a pivotal piece for Lewis in its first GLVC championship run in 2024. He then scored the winning goal a week later against Maryville, giving Lewis its first-ever NCAA tournament victory.

Boyenko played previously at Genesee Community College and was considered a National Lacrosse League prospect at one point before the pandemic.

"I feel very fortunate to have been able to coach Baden," Lewis head coach Joe Peruzzi said. "He was an incredibly kind person who could connect and build relationships with everyone around him. He was the ultimate teammate and made a lasting impact on our community here at Lewis as well as our lacrosse program. He was an amazing leader that pushed our program to new heights. He will be greatly missed and his legacy will live on with us at Lewis, forever."

Lewis announced that the 2026 season would be dedicated to Boyenko and will be played in his honor.