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