[1] Lewis Cooper began his playing career at Darley Dale F.C., a club based in the Peak District, in 1885.
In season 1887–88 Grimsby Town reached the fourth round of the FA Cup for the second time since the club was formed.
In June 1888 Cooper returned to Derbyshire and re-signed for Derby County.
[2][3] Lewis Cooper made his League debut on 8 September 1888, playing as a forward, at Pike's Lane, the then home of Bolton Wanderers.
Lewis Cooper appeared in 15 of the 22 League matches played by Derby County in season 1888–89 and scored eight goals.