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