New England Lacrosse Journal‘s Chasing The Goal

Kyle and Owen are joined by Patrick Wallace from Goalie Gurus. The discussion covers the unique mentality and challenges of lacrosse goalies, including their psychological pressures and the evolution of goalie training techniques. Patrick shares his expertise on recruiting goalies, evaluating their performance, and the importance of mental health and leadership training. The conversation also touches on the changing landscape of goaltending, the effectiveness of the 10-man ride, and the importance of athletic and quick decision-making abilities for goalies. Visit www.goaliegurus.com Topics 00:47 Introducing the Goalie Coach 01:25 The Mentality of a Successful Goalie 02:58 Recruiting and Training Goalies 04:57 Evolving Goalie Techniques 08:03 Challenges and Psychology in Coaching 13:42 Youth Coaching and Goalkeeping IQ 22:43 Advanced Strategies and Sub Games 25:25 The Role of LSM in Lacrosse 26:14 Specialty Positions and Their Impact 27:02 Evaluating Goalie Performance 28:20 The Importance of Game Data 28:58 Club vs. College Rules 30:07 The Evolution of Midfielders 31:58 The 10-Man Ride Strategy 34:29 Coaching Techniques for Goalies 45:01 Memorable Saves and Goalie Stories 49:15 Conclusion and Goalie Gurus Information

Kyle and Owen are joined by Carter Rice, a standout midfielder for the Redwoods in the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL). They discuss the end of the college lacrosse season, the transition to professional play, and Rice's experiences and challenges in the PLL. The conversation also delves into Rice's time at Syracuse University, his transition from an offensive to a defensive midfielder, and his memories of high school lacrosse rivalries. Additionally, Rice shares his thoughts on playing under coach Anthony Kelly, the emotional rollercoaster of playoffs, and his goals outside lacrosse. Topics 00:18 Reflecting on Playoff Season 01:02 Special Guest: Carter Rice 04:20 Transition to Professional Lacrosse 10:54 College Memories and Rivalries 21:48 Recognizing Talent: Freshman Year Reflections 22:08 Deciding to Go Pro: The Aha Moment 22:54 Post-PLL Career Plans 23:44 Branding and NIL Experiences 24:59 Coaching Aspirations and Experiences 25:44 Adjusting to PLL Rules and Dynamics 27:17 Defensive Strategies and Techniques 33:40 Funny Stories and Locker Room Tales 39:13 Chasing the Championship Dream 40:34 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Kyle and Owen share their experiences from a summer packed with lacrosse tournaments and coaching. Kyle, broadcasting from a hotel in Scarborough, Maine, discusses his summer schedule, highlighting various tournaments like the New Hampshire-Vermont All-Star Game and the Legacy Tournament in Devens, Massachusetts. He also touches on the evolving dynamics of club teams and recruiting trends. Owen recounts his coaching stint with the Eastern Mass Hawks, detailing the challenges and joys of coaching 2026 players. The duo also explores the importance of fitting in the right college both academically and athletically, shares insights on handling social media in recruitment, and offers tips for parents in the recruiting process. The episode wraps up with a preview of Kyle's upcoming coaching stint at the Lake Placid tournament and news of a coaching change at Clark University. Topics 00:42 Summer Lacrosse Tournaments Recap 01:49 New Hampshire vs Vermont All-Star Game 02:51 Coaching and Tournament Experiences 05:39 Advice for Lacrosse Parents and Players 07:21 Service Academies and Early Commitments 14:10 MIAA vs ISL All-Star Game 21:27 New England Lacrosse Showcase Insights 26:38 Parental Expectations and Player Performance 26:57 NLS Tournament Highlights 27:45 Challenges of Coaching JV Teams 28:50 Commitment Updates and Recruiting Trends 31:45 Coaching Experiences and Reflections 34:00 Club Coaching Insights and Anecdotes 36:44 Coaching Philosophy and Player Development 47:04 Upcoming Coaching Events and Final Thoughts

Kyle and Owen welcome Ralph Nelson, a key figure in Maine's lacrosse landscape. It’s a comprehensive conversation revolving around the foundation and growth of Maine's lacrosse community. The trio discusses the successful creation of a summer league for college athletes, the challenges faced in organizing it, and the overwhelming buy-in from players. Ralph shares his coaching journey, from his initial role at various schools to building the lacrosse program at Waynflete School. The discussion also touches on the logistics of maintaining a lacrosse team in smaller schools, the challenges of balancing a tight-knit player community, and exciting plans for a fall high school league future. Chasing the Goal podcast from New England Lacrosse Journal is a Seamans Media production. Find more daily lacrosse news at New England Lacrosse Journal: https://www.laxjournal.com/ Topics 00:49 Introducing the Guest: Ralph Nelson 02:40 Maine Lacrosse Summer League: The Origin Story 04:16 Challenges and Logistics of Running the League 06:24 Community and Player Buy-In 19:35 Ralph Nelson's Lacrosse Journey 23:14 Balancing Social Life and Lacrosse 23:29 Early Coaching Career 23:52 Challenges of Coaching Lacrosse 24:41 Transition to Club Coaching 25:49 Building a Lacrosse Program 27:32 Struggles with Team Numbers 30:39 Coaching Philosophy and Challenges 41:02 Future Plans and Initiatives

The guest is Winchester High School head lacrosse coach Phil Reuland. The conversation covers several topics including the trials and tribulations of coaching, the impact of injuries, and the importance of adaptability in coaching strategies. Coach Reuland shares anecdotes from his extensive coaching career, emphasizing the need to tailor strategies to the strengths of the players, highlighting memorable wins, and discussing how the sport has evolved over the years. They also touch upon the unique challenges faced by public schools in the evolving landscape of lacrosse, particularly in contrast to private and prep schools. Topics 01:17 Welcoming the Guest: Coach Phil Reuland 01:35 Coach's Lacrosse Journey 03:39 Transition to Coaching 05:18 Challenges and Achievements as a Coach 11:13 Impact of COVID on Lacrosse 14:41 Public vs. Private School Lacrosse Dynamics 23:18 Future of Lacrosse Divisions 26:35 Challenges of Managing Lacrosse Injuries 27:15 Impact of Injuries on Team Dynamics 33:07 Memorable Wins and Coaching Highlights 36:51 Coaching Philosophy and Strategies 45:41 Adapting to Changes in Lacrosse 52:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The guest is S.L. Price, the author of 'The American Game'. The discussion delves into the rich history and cultural significance of lacrosse, including Price's personal journey from sports outsider to deep admirer of the game. Topics covered include the recent semifinal losses experienced by the hosts, the unique traditions and spiritual connections in lacrosse, the rise of the women's game, and the sport's unique spot in American culture. Price also shares insights from his extensive research and interviews, such as the inclusive spirit of lacrosse, the Native American origins, and compelling personal stories like those of Miles and Kyle Harrison. The conversation underscores the deep passion and commitment that unite the lacrosse community. Topics 01:41 Introducing the Guest: S.L. Price 01:53 S.L. Price on Lacrosse Culture 04:10 The Spiritual Connection to Lacrosse 07:21 Challenges and Growth in Lacrosse 12:54 Duke Lacrosse Case and Its Impact 26:00 Lacrosse's Democratic Nature 29:12 The Editing Process: Cutting Down the Manuscript 31:09 Receiving the Final Book: First Impressions 31:34 Interviewing Lacrosse Legends: Personal Experiences 32:21 Bill Tierney: A Complex Figure in Lacrosse 33:12 Covering Sports Greats: From Michael Jordan to Lacrosse 35:46 The Human Side of Lacrosse Legends 39:20 The Harrison Family: A Story of Legacy and Reconciliation 42:53 Lacrosse's Unique Cultural Significance 49:47 Writing a Lacrosse Book: Challenges and Insights 54:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Kyle and Owen are joined by BC High head coach Marcus Craigwell who delves into the challenges and strategies of managing a successful high school lacrosse team. They discuss the differences between New Hampshire and Massachusetts lacrosse seasons, the impact of spring break on practice schedules, and the importance of putting in the hard work. Marcus shares his experiences with winning and losing championships, explaining how emotional and intense these games can be for both players and coaches. The episode also highlights the importance of having a strong youth program and the role of consistent coaching in building a successful lacrosse culture. Other key topics include managing player roles, handling recruitment, and integrating club and high school lacrosse priorities. The conversation ends with a discussion on improving the game, including innovative suggestions for referee involvement and fitness. Topics 01:04 Guest Introduction: BC High Coach Marcus Craigwell 01:48 The Emotional Impact of High School Championships 08:42 Building a Winning Team and Philosophy 16:35 The Importance of Youth Programs 23:34 Building Trust and Setting Expectations 23:56 Success Stories and Trust in Coaching 24:35 The Importance of Discipline and Order 28:35 Handling Social Media and Player Recruitment 31:02 Balancing High School and Club Lacrosse 37:11 Developing Coaching Styles and Player Growth 40:03 Challenges in Scheduling and Competition 47:43 Final Thoughts and Improving the Game

Kyle and Owen engage in a lively discussion with James Foote, the assistant lacrosse coach at Flagler College. They delve into Foote's journey in coaching, from his beginnings in lacrosse sales to his current role at Flagler, a burgeoning program that has rapidly ascended the ranks of Division II lacrosse. Foote shares stories about overcoming early challenges, the significance of building relationships with players, and integrating various tactical philosophies learned from different coaching influences. They also discuss the broader landscape of Division II lacrosse, highlighting the growth and excitement surrounding the sport in recent years. The episode sheds light on the dedication and passion required to build a successful lacrosse program from the ground up. Topics 01:25 Introducing the Guest: James Foot 01:43 Challenges and Rewards of Coaching at Flagler 03:50 Building a New Program at Flagler 11:11 Coaching Dynamics and Relationships 17:10 Moments of Success and Reflection 23:04 Family and Coaching Balance 23:20 Early Coaching Struggles 25:49 Transition to Sales 27:31 Recruitment and D2 Lacrosse 34:22 Coaching Philosophies and Tactics 40:08 The Growth of D2 Lacrosse 43:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Kyle welcomes guest Dan Arestia to discuss the Connecticut high school lacrosse scene for the 2023 season. They cover the class structure and the top teams. The episode delves into key players, team strengths, and potential state title contenders. They also touch on the PLL draft and the likely number one pick. Topics 00:40 Connecticut Lacrosse Overview 03:29 Fairfield Prep Team Analysis 06:06 Cheshire Team Analysis 09:04 Darien Team Analysis 13:23 Ridgefield Team Analysis 15:31 Staples Team Analysis 16:52 New Canaan Team Analysis 17:21 Michigan's Defensive Powerhouse 19:17 Wilton's Rising Stars 20:45 Daniel Hand's Challenges 21:49 New Fairfield's Dominance 23:01 Joel Barlow's Strong Lineup 25:49 Simsbury and St. Joe's Contenders 27:47 Final Four Predictions 29:34 Top Pick in the Draft 31:20 Where to Find More Content

Kyle and Owen discuss the upcoming MIAA Division 2 and Division 1 lacrosse seasons. The show kicks off with a review of the top teams in Division 2, including an in-depth analysis of Redding Memorial and their standout players, as well as game strategies. Transitioning to Division 1, Kyle and Owen spotlight powerhouses like St. John's Prep and BC High, discussing their rosters, coaching philosophies, and potential to dominate the field. The episode wraps up with predictions for the final four teams in both divisions and a look at some key matchups to watch. This episode is a comprehensive guide for lacrosse enthusiasts eager for the MIAA season. Topics 00:20 Season Kickoff and Game Recap 00:32 MIAA Division 2 and 3 Preview 01:04 Westwood and Redding Lacrosse Teams 06:03 Billerica Lacrosse Team Insights 10:53 Duxbury Lacrosse Team Analysis 13:52 Marshfield Lacrosse Team Overview 17:40 Hingham Lacrosse Team Breakdown 21:42 Longmeadow Lacrosse Team Dominance 24:11 Legendary Coach and NE10 Lacrosse 24:34 Top Division 2 Lacrosse Teams 25:44 Standout Players and Teams 27:25 Division 1 Lacrosse Insights 27:55 St. John's Prep Dominance 32:10 BC High as a Challenger 35:48 Xaverian's Rise 38:28 Lincoln-Sudbury's Passion 41:50 Acton-Boxborough Rivalry 43:41 Andover's Potential 46:02 Predictions for Division 2 and 1

Kyle Devitte and Owen Hart gear up for the preseason by previewing MIAA Division 3 and Division 4 lacrosse teams. They discuss coaching strategies, player development stories, and share personal anecdotes. The hosts predict top contenders such as Sandwich and Norwell for D4 and Medfield for D3 while detailing key players and team dynamics. Emphasis is placed on the importance of strong program traditions, rigorous schedules, and the challenges faced by public school teams. The episode also touches on the impact of new coaching staff and the evolving landscape of high school sports post-Covid. Topics 01:03 Coaching Stories and Challenges 02:02 JV Coaching Experiences 04:29 MIAA Division 3 and 4 Preview 07:08 Division 4 Highlights and Predictions 20:20 Division 3 Insights and Team Analysis 23:25 Rooting for Great Games and Players 24:06 Positive Monday Emails 24:49 Team Analysis: Burlington and Dover Sherborne 25:55 Team Analysis: Foxborough and Falmouth 28:37 Team Analysis: Situate and Natick 31:51 Medfield: The Team to Beat 38:34 Challenges and Strategies in Coaching 45:02 Excitement for the Upcoming Season

Kyle and Owen, joined by guest Mike Zhe, provide an in-depth preview of the upcoming 2023 Independent School League (ISL) lacrosse season. They discuss team dynamics, key players, and make predictions about the championship contenders. The conversation covers coaching styles, team strategies, and the high level of competition within the ISL. The episode concludes with bold predictions for the championship matchups and overall winner. Topics 00:21 Weather and Field Conditions 01:02 Guest Introduction: Mike Zhe 01:19 ISL Team Preview: Lower Tier 04:23 ISL Team Preview: Middle Tier 11:09 ISL Team Preview: Upper Tier 26:53 ISL Team Preview: Top Teams 28:23 Player Spotlight: ISL's Best 29:10 Offensive Strengths and Defensive Concerns 29:54 Middlesex's New Coach: Brian Powers 30:22 Owen Cran: Middlesex's Star Player 32:16 ISL vs. MIA: A Comparison 35:49 Nobles: A Team to Watch 39:37 St. Sebastian's: A Powerhouse 45:50 Belmont Hill: The Defending Champions 52:06 Predictions and Final Thoughts

Kyle and Owen interview Kevin Orcutt, head coach of Marshfield Boys Lacrosse. The discussion starts with an update on current sports events and transitions into a detailed conversation with Coach Orcutt about his journey from being an 'Army brat' in Germany to becoming an influential lacrosse coach. Highlights include his various coaching roles, how he self-educated in lacrosse, and the inspirational figures he met, like Stu Curran. The dialogue also touches on the challenges of elitism in youth lacrosse, the importance of multi-sport athletes, and Marshfield's successful run to the state finals. Finally, Orcutt discusses his expectations for the upcoming season and the critical role of nurturing underdog players in the sport. Topics 00:53 College Lacrosse Highlights 01:21 Interview with Coach Kevin Orcutt 03:32 Learning and Coaching Philosophy 06:24 Challenges and Success Stories 20:04 Club Lacrosse and Player Development 32:34 Celebrating Student Successes 33:21 The Challenges of Coaching High School vs. College 33:44 Navigating the Overload of Coaching Voices 34:47 Balancing Club and High School Coaching 36:18 The Club Team Landscape in New Hampshire 37:49 The Problem with Elitism in Lacrosse 38:56 The Importance of the Right College Fit 40:47 The Value of Multi-Sport Athletes 42:57 The Joy of Coaching and Player Development 44:36 The Role of Elite Players in Youth Development 47:23 The Impact of Good Coaching 58:50 Preparing for the Upcoming Season 01:03:37 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Kyle and Owen converse with Mark Puzzangara, the head coach of Scituate High School's lacrosse team. The discussion covers various coaching philosophies, the importance of fostering young talent, and building a resilient team culture. The episode also delves into Scituate's significant run to the state finals, marked by emotional challenges, the impact of losing two assistant coaches, and the community's support. Puzzangara shares insights into maintaining team morale and staying competitive, providing listeners with both strategic advice and a heartfelt narrative about perseverance in sports. Topics 02:20 Coaching Journey and Background 03:40 Youth Programs and Player Development 08:09 Defensive Strategies and Philosophy 12:31 Challenges and Adaptations in Lacrosse 19:56 Depth and Team Dynamics 22:42 Unique Home Field Advantages 23:44 Coaching at a Small School 24:20 Challenges of Multi-Sport Athletes 25:55 Division Realignment and Competitive Play 27:03 Post-COVID Turnaround 27:52 Impact of Freshman Talent 32:16 Innovative Drills and Training 39:30 Emotional Journey to the State Finals 47:02 Conclusion and Farewell

The guest is Acton-Boxboro Coach Pat Ammendolia on his journey and philosophies since taking over the program, including the importance of fostering a fun, hard-working culture. Coach Ammendolia shares insights on implementing zone defense, developing young talent through the 'buddy program,' and navigating the challenges of the high school lacrosse landscape, such as players reclassing and transferring to prep schools. The episode closes with a talk on the significance of the Players Cup and its impact on high school lacrosse in Massachusetts. Topics 01:53 Building a Winning Culture at AB 03:43 Challenges and Strategies in Coaching 08:53 Youth Programs and Community Engagement 12:01 Playoff Formats and Opinions 17:07 Zone Defense: A Deep Dive 21:46 The Wesleyan Zone Defense 22:37 Coaching Challenges and Strategies 23:36 Zone Defense in Action 26:52 Balancing Offense and Defense 29:09 Reflecting on Playing Career 31:58 Team Rules and Philosophy 34:34 Challenges of Player Retention 37:38 Debating Reclassing in Lacrosse 42:59 The Impact of Roster Limits 44:06 The Importance of April Break Tournaments 45:44 Conclusion and Farewell

In this engaging episode of New England Lacrosse Journals Chasing the Gold podcast, hosts Kyle Devitte and Owen Hart are joined by Sacred Heart Men's Lacrosse Head Coach Jon Basti. The conversation covers a wide array of topics, including the specifics of preseason practice, transitioning between conferences, and adapting game strategies. Coach Basti dives into the mental and emotional aspects of coaching, recounts memorable victories, and discusses the implementation and implications of the Transfer Portal in college sports. Along the way, personal stories and humorous anecdotes, including a heartfelt moment with former player Tim Fallon, are shared, giving listeners a comprehensive view of what it takes to build and maintain a successful lacrosse program. Topics 00:48 Countdown to College Lacrosse 01:36 Interview with Coach Jon Basti 02:48 Journey into the MAAC 06:21 Philosophical Shift and Season Challenges 09:15 Turning Point and Team Resilience 15:34 Coaching Philosophy and Mindset 30:04 Discovering a Coaching Connection 30:34 Memorable First Coaching Experience 31:29 Building a Strong Team at East Con 32:46 Emotional Challenges in Coaching 41:32 Dealing with the Transfer Portal 48:37 Reflecting on Wins and Losses 55:01 Tim Fallon Story and Closing Remarks

Kyle and Owen sit down with Coach Dave Barton, head coach of Falmouth High School's lacrosse program in Maine. They discuss the development of the sport in Maine, the importance of building a strong community and youth program, and how playing competitive out-of-state teams can elevate local lacrosse standards. Coach Barton shares insights into his journey from a high school goalie to a successful coach, the challenges of overcoming repeated playoff losses, and the joy of finally winning a state championship. The conversation also touches on the impact of recruiting and developing local talent for prestigious NESCAC schools and how it can shape the future of lacrosse in the state. Topics 01:09 Guest Introduction: Coach Dave Barton 03:41 Coach Barton's Lacrosse Journey 05:08 The Unique Role of a Goalie 06:04 Coaching Philosophy and Team Dynamics 17:14 Maine Lacrosse Overview 22:19 The Challenge of Defense and Offense 22:35 Overcoming the Championship Hurdle 24:39 The Pain and Motivation of Losing 27:17 Building a Lacrosse Community 28:14 Strengthening Competition Through Out-of-State Games 30:25 Developing Lacrosse in Maine 33:18 The Importance of Quality Coaching 36:43 Youth Engagement and Program Building 43:03 The Role of Social Media and Local Recruitment 48:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Kyle and Owen welcome Brian Powers, the new head coach at Middlesex School, as their guest. Brian shares his journey from playing lacrosse at Tufts University to coaching at Middlesex, detailing his sporting background in New England. The discussion covers a range of topics including the unique nature of lacrosse seasons, the culture of teams from Winchester, the ISL's competitive landscape, and the specific dynamics of coaching at one's alma mater. The conversation also touches on the challenges and philosophies of coaching, transitioning from player to coach, and high school sports rivalries. Brian reflects on his experiences and the high aspirations he has for his first season back at Middlesex. Topics 00:34 Fall Ball and Lacrosse Season Transition 01:12 Interview with Middlesex Head Coach Brian Powers 01:45 Brian Powers' Background and Coaching Journey 03:26 Winchester Lacrosse Culture 04:53 Teaching and Coaching at Middlesex 06:17 Challenges and Successes at CM 13:15 ISL Coaching and Rivalries 15:18 Playoff Atmosphere and Player Utilization 26:16 Rivalries and Memorable Games 37:15 Coaching Philosophy and Personal Connection 39:55 Closing Thoughts and Movember Fun

Kyle and Owen sit down with Hopkinton head coach Dan Norton. They discuss the challenges and successes of Norton's coaching career, including his background and journey to becoming Hopkinton’s head coach. The conversation covers coaching strategies, the importance of youth programs, and how Norton integrates youth and high school lacrosse. They delve into the nuances of defensive drills, the evolution of lacrosse positions like LSM, and the impact of club lacrosse programs. The episode also highlights the rivalry between Hopkinton and Westwood, and the shared history between the teams. Norton shares his thoughts on modern coaching trends and provides insights into lacrosse’s development at the high school level. Topics 00:00 Introduction and Host Banter 00:41 Guest Introduction: Dan Norton 01:39 Dan's Coaching Journey 03:16 Challenges and Learning as a Young Coach 05:26 Balancing Teaching and Coaching 12:23 Reflecting on a Successful Season 15:28 High School Lacrosse in Massachusetts 20:35 Media and Coaching Perspectives 23:11 Awkward Conversations and Career Reflections 24:20 Coaching Youth and High School Lacrosse 25:36 Building Community and Mentorship Programs 28:27 Starting a New Lacrosse Club 29:54 Challenges and Rewards of Club Coaching 33:43 Preparing for the Upcoming Season 37:07 Defensive Drills and Strategies 38:27 Trends in Lacrosse Coaching 39:54 The Evolution of the LSM Position 43:43 Rivalries and Memorable Games 45:13 Closing Remarks and Farewell

The guest is Sam Cleveland, the head coach at Lawrence Academy. They discuss Sam's lacrosse journey from playing in Arlington, Mass to his collegiate career at Colgate, and delve into his coaching philosophy at Lawrence Academy. Topics include the challenges and rewards of high school lacrosse, the impact of club lacrosse and prep schools, and the importance of player development and love for the sport. The conversation also touches on recruiting, reclassifying, and how high school coaches can better support their players in navigating the complex landscape of collegiate lacrosse. Chasing the Goal podcast from New England Lacrosse Journal is a Seamans Media production. Find more daily lacrosse news at New England Lacrosse Journal: https://www.laxjournal.com/ Topics 00:44 Introducing the Guest: Sam Cleveland 01:45 Sam Cleveland's Early Lacrosse Journey 04:01 High School Lacrosse and Club Struggles 05:58 College Lacrosse Experience at Colgate 08:08 Coaching Philosophy and Player Development 17:40 Challenges of Coaching in the ISL 20:50 Recruitment and Team Building at Lawrence Academy 25:49 Balancing ISL and Out-of-League Games 26:43 Reflecting on Last Season's Highlights 27:23 Playoff Strategies and Challenges 29:31 The Importance of Academic and Athletic Balance 33:10 The Role of High School Coaches in Recruitment 35:55 Debating the Reclass Phenomenon 37:28 Challenges in Lacrosse Development 47:40 Opportunities for Improvement in Coaching and Recruitment 50:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts