New England Lacrosse Journal‘s Chasing The Goal

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

North Andover Coach Steve Zella

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 Move02:52 Coaching Journey: From Brookline to North Andover05:35 Coaching Philosophy and Style11:34 Impact of Coaching on Players' Lives16:19 Challenges and Realizations in Coaching20:26 Adapting Coaching Methods21:43 Season Overview and Tournament Discussion22:40 Reflecting on Last Season's Challenges22:56 Building a Strong Schedule23:10 Current Season Performance23:20 Team Composition and Key Players23:54 Game Highlights and Key Matches24:51 Player Development and Future Goals25:36 Coaching Strategies and Adjustments29:13 Offensive Tactics and Plays34:47 Defensive Strategies and Zone Attacks37:44 Upcoming Game Against Bedford40:40 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Simsbury Coach Jim Martocchio

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

Choate Coach Ethan McDonnell

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

Loomis Chaffee Coach Bill Ball

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/

Trinity-Pawling Coach Andrew Kirkaldy

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/

Nashoba Regional Coach Matt Biggs

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/