New England Lacrosse Journal‘s Chasing The Goal

In this episode of the New England Lacrosse Journal's Chasing the Goal podcast, host Kyle Devitte and co-host Jack Piatelli interview Boston Cannons head coach Brian Holman. They discuss Holman's extensive coaching career, his recent neck surgery, and his experiences coaching at various levels from youth to professional lacrosse. Holman shares anecdotes about coaching his own children, the importance of building trust and culture within the team, and the unique challenges of coaching in the PLL. The episode also delves into the potential future of the PLL, including city-based teams and the need for suitable stadiums. Topics 01:12 Welcoming the Guest: Coach Brian Holman 02:10 Coach Holman's Journey in Lacrosse 08:12 Coaching Philosophy and Personal Growth 17:26 Challenges of Coaching at Different Levels 18:53 Building Team Culture and Trust 22:10 Coaching Family and Personal Reflections 24:01 Sydney's Athletic Journey 24:42 A Tough Coaching Lesson with Marcus 26:19 Coaching Philosophy and Family Bond 28:13 Emotional Moments and Reflections 29:34 Covering Pro Lacrosse: A Personal Perspective 33:05 The Impact of Crowds on Games 35:46 Adapting to Rule Changes in Lacrosse 42:00 Future of Lacrosse: City-Based Teams 45:14 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of the New England Lacrosse Journal's 'Chasing the Goal' podcast, hosts Kyle Devitte and Jack Piatelli welcome returning St. John's Prep head coach John Pynchon. The episode covers Pynchon's coaching journey, the challenges of managing a large and successful lacrosse program, and the cultural values that underpin his team's accomplishments. They delve into the significance of the 2020 Covid season, the impact of star player Jimmy Ayers, and the transitions in high school lacrosse dynamics, including the role of club teams. The discussion also touches on the perceptions and criticisms faced by successful programs and the importance of focusing on the development of students beyond the sport. The episode closes with reflections on the potential for new competitive structures in high school lacrosse. Topics 01:23 Guest Introduction: John Pynchon 02:00 The Lightning Delay Game 05:39 Jimmy Ayers: A Star Player 10:50 Building a Successful Program 15:06 Challenges and Misconceptions 22:42 Dealing with Criticism 28:26 Addressing Animosity in Coaching 29:33 Complaints and Misconceptions 32:05 Building a Winning Program 34:27 Challenges and Growth 38:45 Proposing a Super Catholic League 43:54 Balancing Club and High School Lacrosse 50:23 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

Host Kyle Devitte is joined by guest Ryan Conwell. They delve into Ryan's lacrosse journey, starting from high school in Liverpool, New York, transitioning to college experiences, and his significant involvement with box lacrosse. The episode highlights the competitive nature of senior men's lacrosse in the NABLL, the inception and evolution of the Nor'easters, and the short-lived yet memorable experience of the PBLA with the Chowder Heads. Conwell also discusses the importance of officiating in lacrosse and shares insights on his involvement with the moon bears in international tournaments like the one in Prague. The episode wraps with Devitt's gratitude towards Conwell for his contributions to the sport and his personal aspirations in lacrosse. Topics 00:21 Guest Introduction: Ryan Conwell 00:49 High School Lacrosse Memories 01:45 College Lacrosse Journey 02:58 Lacrosse Forums and Online Community 04:05 Ranking Lacrosse Fan Bases 13:21 Transition to Box Lacrosse 19:46 Founding the Nor'easters 24:33 The Core Four Teams 25:09 The NABLL League Structure 25:31 Rebuilding and Tryouts 26:29 The Value of Summer League 30:14 The Moon Bears Journey 33:19 The PBLA Experience 40:46 The Importance of Being a Good Teammate 43:23 Referee Shortage and Challenges 52:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Kyle is joined by Owen Hart, coach at Westwood High. Owen shares his journey from learning lacrosse as a high school student to becoming a coach. The duo delves into coaching experiences, emphasizing the differences between coaching varsity and JV, and the importance of teaching fundamentals. They also review and provide insights into the MIAA Division 1 and Division 2 lacrosse brackets, highlighting teams, potential upsets, and key matchups to watch. The episode is filled with personal anecdotes, in-depth analysis, and a light-hearted take on the lacrosse community. Topics 01:08 Owen Hart's Lacrosse Journey 02:44 Coaching During COVID-19 04:54 Challenges of Coaching High School Lacrosse 12:30 The Role of Video Production in Lacrosse 19:29 JV Coaching Stories 30:31 A Scrimmage Lesson 31:09 Varsity vs JV: Proving Yourself 31:43 Small Things Matter in Lacrosse 32:34 Game of Execution 33:18 Coaching Philosophy and Experience 34:11 D1 Bracket Analysis 35:36 Massachusetts Lacrosse Drama 48:30 Division 2 Bracket Insights 54:11 Concluding Thoughts and Predictions

The guest is North Andover Head Coach Steve Zella. He covers topics such as the transition of teams between divisions, the impact of influential coaches and the strategies behind preparing a young team for success. Coach Zella shares his coaching journey, style, and the challenges faced this season. The conversation highlights the significance of character-building, adapting coaching methods for younger players, and the ongoing growth and development of lacrosse at the high school level. Topics 01:29 North Andover's Season and Division Move 02:52 Coaching Journey: From Brookline to North Andover 05:35 Coaching Philosophy and Style 11:34 Impact of Coaching on Players' Lives 16:19 Challenges and Realizations in Coaching 20:26 Adapting Coaching Methods 21:43 Season Overview and Tournament Discussion 22:40 Reflecting on Last Season's Challenges 22:56 Building a Strong Schedule 23:10 Current Season Performance 23:20 Team Composition and Key Players 23:54 Game Highlights and Key Matches 24:51 Player Development and Future Goals 25:36 Coaching Strategies and Adjustments 29:13 Offensive Tactics and Plays 34:47 Defensive Strategies and Zone Attacks 37:44 Upcoming Game Against Bedford 40:40 Final Thoughts and Farewell

The guest is Simsbury High School's head coach Jim Martocchio, who shares insights on coaching philosophies, the challenges and rewards of coaching in the town you live in, balancing coaching roles, and the dynamics of preparing teams for playoffs. Additionally, the conversation touches on nurturing player development from youth through high school, the impact of lacrosse on youth, and maintaining passion and fun in the sport despite the pressures of high stakes competition. The coach also delves into the role of community and relationships in building successful programs, highlighting the journey of senior players and discussing the potential next steps in their lacrosse careers. 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 01:50 Exploring Connecticut's Lacrosse Divisions and Challenges 06:45 The Unique Bond of Lacrosse: From Plymouth to Simsbury 15:04 Cultivating a Positive Lacrosse Culture in Simsbury 19:30 The Joy of Coaching and Building a Lacrosse Community 21:01 Reflections on Coaching High School Lacrosse 23:21 The Challenges and Rewards of Coaching in Your Hometown 25:29 Evolving Coaching Strategies with Parenthood 08:34 Building a Community Through Coaching 32:03 The Impact of Coaching Philosophy on Team Dynamics 35:32 Navigating the Competitive Landscape of High School Lacrosse 38:40 Fostering Talent and Leadership in Young Athletes 44:15 Closing Thoughts: The Journey of Coaching

The guest is Ethan McDonnell, the head coach of Choate's lacrosse team. He shares insights on building a lacrosse program, balancing academics and athletics, and navigating the college recruitment process for student-athletes. The discussion covers the unique aspects of Choate, including its academic rigor and innovative approach to education, as well as the importance of finding the right fit for athletes at both the prep school and college levels. McDonnell also reflects on his journey from a student-athlete at Choate to becoming the head coach and how his experience informs his coaching and mentoring approach. The episode emphasizes the value of preparation, community, and matching one's athletic aspirations with educational goals. 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 00:34 Guest Introduction: Ethan McDonnell's Journey 01:37 Season Recap and Team Dynamics 05:05 Balancing Postgrads and Developing Young Talent 09:59 Recruitment Insights for Aspiring Prep School Athletes 14:08 Coach's Personal Journey and Lacrosse in Montreal 21:50 Finding the Right Fit: College and Career Choices 22:25 Life Lessons from the Field: Preparing for Success and Failure 23:24 The Role of a Coach: Beyond the Game 24:25 Navigating the College Recruitment Process 26:03 The Importance of Experience Over Winning 34:41 Choate's Unique Approach to Education and Athletics 40:27 The Personal Touch: Coaching at Your Alma Mater 42:22 Wrapping Up: The Right Fit and Upcoming Challenges

The guest is Loomis Chaffee lacrosse coach Bill Ball, who covers a wide array of topics related to prep school lacrosse. Discussions include the anticipation of the NCAA lacrosse tournament, Cornell's prospects, the importance of early season performances, and coach Ball's experiences and coaching philosophy at Loomis Chaffee. Insights into player development, the impact of mentors, the team's playing style, and managing high-performing athletes' expectations are shared. Additionally, they touch on the importance of multi-sport participation, the changing landscape of recruiting, and the unique benefits and challenges of coaching at a boarding school like Loomis Chaffee. The conversation also delves into the competitive nature of the Founders League, the advantages of a Loomis education, and the complex dynamics of coaching different age groups. Topics 00:21 The Road to the NCAA Lacrosse Tournament 00:53 Special Guest: Insights from Loomis Chaffee's Bill Ball 04:30 Adapting to Early Offense: Loomis's Strategy 05:34 Facing Challenges and Celebrating Wins 08:07 Navigating Team Dynamics Without a Key Player 11:44 Building a Strong Team Culture at Loomis 15:32 The Unique Loomis Experience: Academics and Athletics 20:38 Advice for Aspiring Prep School Athletes 21:59 Looking Ahead: The Founders League Championship 22:51 The Thrill of Post-Season Play and School Rivalries 23:55 The Importance of Multi-Sport Participation 24:30 Building Relationships with Club Teams 26:08 The Evolution of Lacrosse and Coaching 31:15 Recruiting and Evaluating Young Talent 35:57 The Unique Challenges of Coaching at Prep Schools 37:15 Loomis Chaffee's Distinctive Approach to Education and Athletics 41:19 The Future of Prep Lacrosse and Closing Thoughts 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/

The guest is Andrew Kirkaldy, the head coach at Trinity-Pawling. Kirkaldy discusses the challenges and responsibilities of coaching at this level, including player development, mentoring, and recruitment. He emphasizes the importance of teaching life skills alongside lacrosse, reflecting on the pressure to compete for student-athletes and how prep schools provide a nurturing environment for young men to grow both on and off the field. The conversation also touches on Kirkaldy's personal journey through lacrosse, from his playing days in Canada and the NLL draft to transitioning into coaching. Additionally, the episode delves into the competitive landscape of the Founders League, strategies for player utilization and development, and the cultural shift towards incorporating box lacrosse techniques into the field game. Kirkaldy also highlights the accomplishments of his players, the majority of whom continue their lacrosse careers in college, underscoring the program's success in preparing them for the next level. The episode concludes with insights into the unique benefits and challenges of the prep school lacrosse scene. Topics: 01:29 The Challenges and Triumphs of Coaching Lacrosse 03:47 Coach Kirkaldy's Unique Journey to Lacrosse Coaching 05:27 The Evolution of a Lacrosse Player: From Box to Field 20:20 The Importance of Control and Instinct in Lacrosse 24:52 Analyzing Defensive Strategies in Lacrosse 25:09 The Importance of Aggression and Confidence 25:29 Reflecting on Past Performances and Adjustments 25:50 The Challenge of Coaching at High Levels 26:56 Success Stories: From High School to College Lacrosse 27:27 The Role of Athleticism and Team Dynamics 28:46 Coaching Philosophy: Developing Players and Roles 32:02 Balancing Instructional and Situational Coaching 33:36 Building Character and Life Skills Through Lacrosse 38:32 Personal Journey: From Player to Coach 40:50 Recruitment and the Founders League Dynamics 43:14 Choosing Trinity Pauling: A Focus on Authentic Growth 45:12 The Prep School Advantage and Coaching Perspectives 47:21 Concluding Thoughts and the Impact of Coaching 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/

The guest is Nashoba head lacrosse coach Matt Biggs, who delves into coaching philosophies, the growth of lacrosse in New England, and the impact of positive youth programs. Discussions highlight the balance between instructional and positive feedback in coaching, the evolution of player skills and mindset, and the necessity for challenging traditional play styles. Coach Biggs shares his personal journey from a player to a coach, his role in building a strong lacrosse culture at Nashoba, and the importance of adapting coaching strategies to player strengths. The conversation also touches on the challenges and benefits of divisional realignments and power rankings in Massachusetts lacrosse, aiming to enhance the competitiveness and integration of teams across regions. Topics: 00:14 Coaching Styles and Communication on the Field 01:22 Introducing Coach Matt Biggs: A Lacrosse Legacy 02:29 Building a Program: The Nashoba Lacrosse Story 05:42 The Impact of Mentors in Lacrosse Coaching 06:15 The Challenge of Refereeing in Lacrosse 11:47 Cultivating Talent and Team Culture at Nashoba 12:29 The Evolution of a Coach: Offensive Strategy and Team Dynamics 19:40 The Importance of Practice and Developing Young Talent 26:18 Exploring Team Dynamics and Coaching Philosophy 26:35 The Importance of Fun and Culture in Team Sports 28:48 Adapting Coaching Strategies for Youth and High School Sports 31:11 Encouraging Creativity and Individuality in Players 41:23 Navigating Divisional Realignment and Its Impact on Teams 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/

Lacrosse legend Corey Bulken, an assistant coach at Severn School, shares insights on his playing career, coaching philosophy, and transition to coaching high school and college levels. He delves into the evolution of lacrosse, mentoring relationships, recruiting strategies, and the fulfilling experience of impacting players beyond the field.

Aaron Verardi is in his 10th season as head coach of the Harford Community College lacrosse program. In 2023, Verardi led the Fighting Owls to the Program's first NJCAA national championship. The team also finished the season undefeated for the first time with a 12-0 record.

Bishop Feehan High lacrosse coach Tom Sheerin is the guest. Sheerin has been on the coaching staff since the school introduced the game as a varsity sport in 2005. Sheerin also has 21 years of coaching experience with the Attleboro Titans youth lacrosse program.

Thayer Coach Bill Daye, who played collegiately at the University of North Carolina, took over the program in 2023.

Mike Zhe joins Kyle and Jack to preview the upcoming ISL season.

New Attleboro High School lacrosse coach Jim Black joins the show to talk about topics including strategies, coaching philosophies, and team dynamics. Coach Black discusses the challenges of taking on a coaching role in a competitive league like the Hockomock, emphasizing the importance of building a strong team culture and focusing on skill development. Jim also covers the significance of establishing connections with players and families in the community, acknowledging the historical prominence of football in Attleboro and the need to cultivate lacrosse talent. Coach Black outlines his approach to coaching, drawing on experiences from his own playing days and mentorship from influential figures in his life. The conversation also delves into specific drills and training methods, with Coach Black and the hosts sharing their favorite drills for improving skills such as ground balls, passing, and shooting.

The guest is new Taft School Coach Max Rosner. He was a head coach for NXT Lacrosse Club (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), assistant coach of the 2017 Under Armor Underclass Tournament team (Towson, Maryland), and assistant coach for the 2021s, 2027s and 2030s Next Level Lacrosse teams (Bethesda, Maryland).

Tyrone Croom is the Associate Director of Student Affairs at Cushing Academy and owner of CroART Inc., a "one stop shop for adult leagues." CroART offers adult players a chance to play Lacrosse or Flag Football at a competitive level. Youth players can attend clinics, participate on travel teams, or learn how to play. More at https://www.croartsports.com/

In 2021 Mark Champagne lost the mother to his son Quinton after a long battle with dementia. Quinton and Mark dealt with a very difficult and very real disease that turned their world upside down. Quinton experienced depression and suicidal ideations at a young age, and his father Mark struggled with the task of taking care of his sick wife. They join the show to discuss their experiences and hardships to try and inspire others to talk about theirs.

Peter Milliman is in his fourth season as the head coach at Johns Hopkins. Taking the helm at JH in 2020, Milliman previiously coached at Cornell for three seasons. He guided the Blue Jays to a 12-6 record, a share of the Big Ten regular season title and a trip to the NCAA Quarterfinals in 2023. Johns Hopkins finished the season ranked fifth nationally.