New England Lacrosse Journal‘s Chasing The Goal

Deemer Class of First Class Lacrosse

In this episode of the New England Lacrosse Journal's 'Chasing the Goal' podcast, host Kyle Devitte interviews Deemer Class, co-founder of First Class Lacrosse and former pro and Duke lacrosse player. They discuss Deemer's journey from youth sports to playing at a Division I powerhouse like Duke, the rigorous training that shaped his career, and the transition into professional lacrosse with MLL and PLL. Deemer shares insights into First Class Lacrosse, emphasizing the importance of intentional training, personalized coaching, and maintaining a love for the game. The conversation also touches on the evolving culture of lacrosse, the scrutiny of elite programs, and the valuable experiences at the Division II and III levels.
 
Topics
00:40 Deemer Class: Early Life and Lacrosse Journey
03:08 College Experience at Duke
04:58 Transition to Professional Lacrosse
07:18 Founding First Class Lacrosse
09:25 Reflections and Evolution of First Class Lacrosse
13:14 Lacrosse Culture and Training Philosophy
20:22 Developing Elite Training Events
29:26 Engaging Youth Lacrosse Coaches
30:33 The Importance of Speed and Reps
31:37 Personalizing Coaching Approaches
32:32 Challenges of Modern Coaching
36:15 Gamifying Lacrosse Drills
38:54 The Reality of College Lacrosse
47:48 Balancing Expectations and Reality
52:56 What's Next for First Class Lacrosse?

Colby Head Coach Jake Bernhardt

In this episode of New England Lacrosse Journal's Chasing The Gold podcast, host Kyle Devitte engages in a comprehensive conversation with Jake Bernhardt, head coach of Colby men’s lacrosse team. Kyle explores Jake’s journey from his upbringing in a football family to playing lacrosse at the University of Maryland, his professional career, and eventual transition to coaching. The discussion covers Jake’s coaching philosophy, strategies for balancing offensive and defensive play, and adapting to new environments as he moved from Florida to Vermont and then to Colby. Jake provides insights into the recruiting process within the competitive NESCAC conference and shares experiences of developing a winning team identity at Colby. Key points include managing team dynamics, the importance of setting realistic goals, and fostering relationships within the lacrosse community. The episode offers a detailed look into the challenges and rewards of collegiate lacrosse coaching, emphasizing strategies for success and continuous improvement.
 
Topics
 
00:44 Jake Bernhardt's Background and Early Life
01:06 Transition to College and Professional Lacrosse
03:45 Coaching Influences and Philosophy
09:13 Coaching at Colby and First Season Challenges
16:46 Building the Coaching Staff and Future Plans
20:43 National Recruiting Strategy
21:07 Lacrosse Popularity in New England
22:39 Welcoming Freshmen to the Program
24:24 NESCAC Admissions Process
25:43 Colby's Unique Selling Points
28:03 Building a Competitive Team
30:38 Offensive and Defensive Strategies
39:59 Setting Realistic Goals for the Season
42:01 Conclusion and Future Outlook

Dan Rosenak of Flow State Yoga Therapy

In this episode of New England Lacrosse Journal's Chasing the Goal podcast, Kyle welcomes Dan Rosenak, owner of Flow State Yoga Therapy and former Clark University lacrosse player. The conversation begins with Dan's introduction to lacrosse in high school and his journey through different athletic pursuits. Dan shares his transition from playing and coaching lacrosse to a career in sales and marketing with Black & Decker, eventually leading him to Hawaii. The discussion covers Dan's experiences playing and coaching lacrosse in Hawaii, his return to the East Coast, and his roles in youth development with Harlem Lacrosse. Dan talks about the life-changing impact of COVID-19, his shift to yoga practice for balancing personal health, and how it became Flow State Yoga Therapy. He provides insights into the significance of connecting body, breath, and mind, offering practical tips for physical and mental well-being. The episode also touches on societal challenges and the value of maintaining a healthy mental state amidst career and personal transitions.
 
Topics
 
00:46 Dan's Early Lacrosse Journey
02:59 College Lacrosse Experience
07:53 Post-College and Coaching
09:12 Life in Hawaii
16:55 Return to Philadelphia and Coaching
19:53 Transitioning from Coaching to Education
20:34 Volunteering with Harlem Lacrosse
22:16 Impact of COVID and Family Decisions
23:16 Discovering Yoga and Personal Balance
24:48 The Importance of Therapy and Mental Health
27:14 Yoga Practice and Its Benefits
32:54 Practical Tips for Connecting Mind and Body
40:11 Yoga Therapy: Individual and Group Work
44:10 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThe Show

Lacrosse War Stories & PLL Predictions

In this episode of New England Lacrosse Journal's Chasing the Gold podcast, host Kyle Devitte goes solo and engages in an extensive conversation with contributor Dan Arestia. They discuss the evolving landscape of lacrosse journalism, the challenges and joys of covering this niche sport, and the impact of COVID-19 on their professional dynamics. They also delve into personal anecdotes about their experiences in lacrosse journalism and discuss predictions for the upcoming Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) semifinals, with in-depth analysis on team strategies, key players, and potential outcomes. 
 
Topics
 
00:34 Guest Introduction: Dan Arestia
01:03 The Impact of COVID on Lacrosse
01:51 Dan's Journey into Lacrosse Writing
07:23 Balancing Passion and Profession
10:12 Challenges in Lacrosse Journalism
17:59 Covering D2 and D3 Lacrosse
23:17 Collaborative Efforts and Fun in Reporting
29:55 The Impact of AI on Writing Jobs
31:38 Challenges of Managing Social Media and Trolls
33:15 The Importance of Responding to Messages
34:29 Transition to PLL Semifinals Discussion
34:43 Analyzing the PLL Semifinals Matchups
36:22 Chaos vs. Archers: A Deep Dive
41:21 The Role of Coaches in Team Success
54:54 Predictions and Final Thoughts
56:21 Closing Remarks and Plugs

St. Anselm Coach Drew Bourdeau

In this episode of the 'Chasing the Goal' podcast, hosts Kyle Devitte and Jack Piatelli talk with Drew Bourdeau, the new head coach of St. Anselm College's lacrosse team. Drew discusses his recent transition from coaching at Bedford High School, the exciting prospects at St. A's, and his plans to maintain and elevate the already strong lacrosse culture. He shares insights into his coaching philosophy, recruitment strategies, and the importance of tradition and culture in building a successful program. The episode also touches on the evolving dynamics of college recruiting, the significance of the New England lacrosse scene, and the challenges and opportunities presented by modern conferences and streaming arrangements.
 
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 
 
01:56 Guest Introduction
02:44 Drew's Journey to Head Coach
05:54 Transforming St. Anselm's Lacrosse Program
17:21 Recruitment Strategies and Challenges
23:57 The Growth of Lacrosse Broadcasting
25:03 Epic Games and Coaching at Bedford
26:22 Spotlight on Bennett Matthews
30:40 Youth Programs and Player Development
33:24 Choosing the Right College for Lacrosse
44:12 Fall Ball and Future Plans
46:01 Conclusion and Farewell
 

The Evolution of Lacrosse with Matt Hogan

In this episode of the New England Lacrosse Journal’s Chasing the Goal podcast, Kyle and Jack welcome lacrosse legend Matt Hogan. Starting from his college days at Springfield College, Hogan shares his extensive coaching journey, including impactful stints at the University of Maryland and Delaware. He also discusses the evolution of the game, the advancements in equipment and rules, and the increasing challenges in the club lacrosse landscape, such as unethical practices and the pressures of recruitment. Additionally, Hogan gives insights into his successful Hogan Lacrosse enterprise and emphasizes the importance of fostering competitiveness, integrity, and a love for the game in young players.
Topics
00:36 Guest Introduction: Matt Hogan
01:15 Matt Hogan's Early Coaching Career
02:57 Coaching at University of Maryland and Delaware
06:35 Evolution of Lacrosse: Rules and Equipment
16:28 Debate on Face-Off Rules
26:54 The Unique Possession Rule in Lacrosse
27:37 The Impact of Sixes on Lacrosse Strategy
29:25 Building Hogan Lacrosse: A Personal Journey
34:09 Challenges and Growth in Youth Lacrosse
38:44 The Importance of Competitiveness and Integrity
43:56 The Role of Coaches and Parents in Player Development
49:41 Final Thoughts and Reflections
 

Cannons LC Coach Brian Holman

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

St. John's Prep Coach John Pynchon

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

Lax Expert Ryan Conwell

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

Westwood Lacrosse's Owen Hart

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 Journey02:44 Coaching During COVID-1904:54 Challenges of Coaching High School Lacrosse12:30 The Role of Video Production in Lacrosse19:29 JV Coaching Stories30:31 A Scrimmage Lesson31:09 Varsity vs JV: Proving Yourself31:43 Small Things Matter in Lacrosse32:34 Game of Execution33:18 Coaching Philosophy and Experience34:11 D1 Bracket Analysis35:36 Massachusetts Lacrosse Drama48:30 Division 2 Bracket Insights54:11 Concluding Thoughts and Predictions