We sit with Mark Millon, former MLL and NLL legend, to discuss his journey from college to professional lacrosse, the evolution of player development, and insights into the modern game. Mark shares stories from his career, lessons on training the next generation of athletes, and his perspective on the current and future landscape of the sport. Whether you're a player, coach, or fan, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways on skill development, mindset, and the beauty of lacrosse.  

Topics Discussed  

- Winning a championship with the Philadelphia Wings and the lessons learned from that journey  

- The evolution of player development and the importance of self-driven training  

- Specialization vs. versatility in lacrosse and how young athletes should approach the game  

- The significance of playing multiple sports to build athleticism  

- The role of club teams and camps in a player's growth  

- The necessity of being a two-handed player and how it impacts the modern game  

- The transition from college to professional lacrosse and adapting to the box game  

- Riding, transition play, and what makes an elite offensive player  

- Coaching philosophies, favorite drills, and game strategies  

- The PLL’s growth and what’s next for professional lacrosse  

Timestamps

00:00 Winning the Championship Against All Odds

00:53 Discussing UVA Scrimmages and Team Performance

02:02 Player Development and Specialization in Lacrosse

05:18 The Importance of Being a Two-Handed Player

10:02 Balancing Lacrosse and Other Sports for Young Athletes

12:16 The Role of Clubs and Camps in Player Development

17:42 Insights on the 2025 Lacrosse Season

21:21 Transitioning from College to Professional Lacrosse

30:16 Mastering Ambidexterity in Lacrosse

31:44 The Hardest Skill in Lacrosse

33:54 Offensive Techniques and Strategies

38:39 The Importance of Off-Ball Movement

39:24 The Pick Game and Offensive Variability

45:12 Transition Game and Riding

49:16 Mark's Lacrosse Journey and Business

56:45 Coaching Insights and Favorite Drills

59:23 Final Thoughts and Game Strategies

Key Quotes from the Episode

"A champion is made in his yard. It’s not even with a trainer. It’s just doing the work on your own. That’s where the great ones are made." – Mark Millon  

"If you’re growing up in the U.S. and not playing box 200 times a year, you should probably focus on being two-handed. It gives you a massive advantage." – Mark Millon  

“Transition goals are huge – they’re easier, they fire up the crowd, and they make a difference in tight games." – Mark Millon  

Resources Mentioned  

-Millon Lacrosse Camps - https://www.instagram.com/millonlacrossecamps  

- Millon Events – https://www.instagram.com/millonevents

- Project 9 Lacrosse – A high-level training experience for elite high school players  

- The PLL (Premier Lacrosse League) – https://www.premierlacrosseleague.com

Connect with Us 

Follow *The Ride Podcast* on Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:  

📷 The Ride Podcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theride.talk  

📷 Mark Millon Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markmillon 

Listener Call to Action

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your fellow lacrosse fans! Join the conversation—what are your thoughts on player development and the modern game? Let us know in the comments or on social media! 

In this episode, we sit down with Zach Thomas, Offensive Coordinator and Assistant Coach at Christopher Newport University. We discuss the evolution of CNU's lacrosse program, innovative coaching strategies, and the principles that define their success. From breaking down a 10-man ride to emphasizing reads in offense. Zach shares a wealth of knowledge applicable to both players and coaches.

Topics Discussed  

• The journey of transforming CNU into a top-tier Division III lacrosse program.  
• Implementing the 10-man ride and its tactical benefits.  
• Principles of offense: possession, ball movement, spacing, and deception.  
• The role of film study in player and team development.  
• Recruitment strategies and the importance of versatility in players.  
• Navigating overtime strategies and high-pressure scenarios.  
• How sub-games and matchup changes create offensive opportunities.  

Key Quotes from the Episode  

• "We want our guys to be as dangerous as possible and always a threat on offense." – Zach Thomas  
• "The 10-man ride is about trust—it starts with elite communication and believing in the system." – Zach Thomas  
• "Deception is the number one thing we're working on for personal development right now." – Zach Thomas  

Resources Mentioned  

- ScoreBreak: https://www.scorebreak.io 

  A platform for film study and direct player feedback.  

- Jamie Munroe's Lacrosse Teachings 

Connect with Us

• Follow us onInstagram for updates.
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• Subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, subscribe to the podcast, and leave us a review! Got thoughts or questions about this episode?

In this episode of The Ride, host Zach Quezada sits down with Zack Capozzi, the mind behind Lax Reference, to discuss the growing role of data and analytics in lacrosse. They explore trends in the 2025 season, the importance of shooting efficiency, and how coaches and players can use stats to their advantage. Zack also shares insights into how his platform is changing the way teams approach the game.

Topics Discussed:

Timestamps:

00:00 Sneek Peek

00:47 Welcome to the 2025 Season

01:07 Introducing Lax Reference

02:12 Exciting Start to the Season

03:14 Deep Dive into 2025 Season Trends

06:25 Recap of 2024 Highlights

10:51 Challenges in Lacrosse Data

17:24 Lax Reference: Tools and Insights

21:25 Adoption and Growth of Lax Reference

25:54 High School Lacrosse Data

29:01 Overrated Stats in Lacrosse

32:09 Underrated Stats in Lacrosse

32:42 Shooting Efficiency and Its Impact

34:15 Turnover Rate: A Deeper Look

34:52 Total Numbers vs. Ratios

38:44 Player Engagement and Aggressiveness

40:12 The Role of Data in Game Plans

46:18 The Evolution of Lacrosse with the Shot Clock

47:42 Specialty Stats: Faceoffs and EMO

54:41 The Importance of True Faceoff Win Rate

56:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Key Quotes from the Episode:

"Friends don't let friends cite goals per game. What you really should be focusing on is increasing the chances of scoring on any possession." – Zack

Resources Mentioned:

Connect with Us:

If you found this episode insightful, share it with your teammates, coaches, or fellow fans! Don’t forget to subscribe to The Ride for more deep dives into the world of lacrosse. Join the conversation on social media and let us know your favorite takeaways from this episode!

Jack Posey, is a current defender for the Chaos LC in the PLL. Jack shares his journey from being undrafted to making an impact in professional lacrosse, delving deep into the nuances of defensive techniques, training philosophies, and his role at the Lacrosse Barn—a premier training facility in Texas. This episode is packed with insights on player development, the importance of angles, and actionable advice for aspiring athletes.

Topics Discussed:

Key Quotes from the Episode:

Timestamps:

00:00 Sneak Peek

00:42 Welcome to The Ride

02:14 Introduction and Initial Thoughts on Lacrosse Skill Sessions

03:03 Overview of the Lacrosse Barn

04:03 Defensive Training Philosophy and Techniques

05:47 The Importance of Proper Technique and Training

07:22 Dallas Lacrosse Scene and Community

11:12 Influence of Jack Rowlett and Training Insights

13:50 Advanced Defensive Techniques and Training Methods

26:35 Coaching Philosophy and Player Development

32:11 Understanding Offensive and Defensive Angles

33:45 Session Structure and Failure Management

35:20 Encouraging Self-Analysis in Players

36:50 Advanced Defensive Techniques and Approaches

49:05 Navigating the Back of the Cage

52:54 Lessons from Coaches and Teammates

59:34 Looking Forward to the Upcoming Season

Resources Mentioned:

Connect with Us:

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend who loves lacrosse or is looking to improve their game! Don’t forget to rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform—your feedback helps us grow and continue bringing you valuable content.

In this compelling episode of The Ride, host Zach Quezada sits down with Coach Tom Gravante, a lacrosse legend who spent 28 years as the head coach at Mount St. Mary’s and is now an assistant coach at Bucknell. Joining them is Mark Hargrave, a former player for Coach Gravante who shares his perspective on Gravante’s indelible impact. Together, they delve into stories of resilience, team culture, and the life lessons learned on and off the field. From championship wins to overcoming personal challenges, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

Topics Discussed

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

00:21 Setting Up the Interview

01:46 Coach Gravante's Humble Beginnings

01:46 Transition to Bucknell

02:14 Coaching Philosophy and Strategies

04:26 Building a Winning Culture

22:31 Recruitment and Player Development

26:56 Memorable Seasons and Key Players

36:01 Personal Reflections and Legacy

45:52 A Freshman Year Story: Overcoming Challenges

46:38 The Importance of Footwork and Training

47:08 Recruiting Insights: Hands, Feet, and Hips

49:20 Multi-Sport Backgrounds and Athletic Development

50:53 Coach's Battle with Cancer: A Testament to Resilience

56:50 Coaching Philosophy and Memorable Quotes

01:02:48 Reflecting on Memorable Games and Strategies

01:13:20 Thoughts on NCAA Policies and Roster Limits

01:17:14 Favorite Drills and Coaching Techniques

01:25:56 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Key Quotes from the Episode

Resources Mentioned

Connect with Us

Listener Call to Action

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend who loves lacrosse or needs a dose of inspiration. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on your podcast platform of choice—your support helps us grow and reach more listeners! Also, join the conversation on social media using #TheRidePodcast to share your favorite moments from this episode.

Join Zach Quezada as he sits down with the legendary Chazz Woodson, former MLL All-Star and current head coach of Hampton University's lacrosse program. In this engaging conversation, Coach Woodson shares his journey from player to coach, his offensive philosophies, the challenges and rewards of building Hampton’s program, and how he instills creativity and discipline in his players. Discover insights into leadership, player development, and the future of HBCU lacrosse.

Topics Discussed

- Coach Woodson’s Lacrosse Journey: From MLL star to Hampton University head coach.

- Hampton’s Program Growth: Recruitment strategies, team culture, and overcoming challenges.

- Creative and Purposeful Play: How Coach Woodson balances creativity with discipline in coaching and play.

- Memorable Plays and Techniques: Analyzing Coach Woodson’s iconic goals and his approach to diving finishes.

- Leadership and Team Dynamics: Strategies for building a cohesive, motivated team.

- The Future of HBCU Lacrosse: Why Hampton’s program is shaping the sport.

Key Quotes from the Episode

1. "Dodging isn’t about getting around somebody. Dodging is about getting from point A to point B." – Chazz Woodson  

2. "We’re trying to change the culture of the team—how we operate, represent ourselves, and build something impactful." – Chazz Woodson  

3. "You have to execute the simple things at an extraordinarily high level before you can master the creative plays." – Chazz Woodson

Connect with Us

- Follow us on Instagram: @TheRidePodcast

- Subscribe on Spotify: The Ride Podcast

- Visit our Website: www.theridepodcast.com

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend who loves lacrosse or leadership insights! Don’t forget to subscribe to “The Ride” and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Join the conversation on Instagram and let us know your favorite takeaway from Coach Woodson’s story.

Eric Dunne, Head Coach of Farmingdale (NY) and a University of Albany Alum, joins Zach to discuss teaching effective defensive checks, the importance of scouting, insights gleaned from top college coaches, and the impact of the Thompson brothers and Jake Piseno on the game. Coach Dunne reflects on his experiences, from state finals victories to tough losses, and shares his favorite drills and defensive strategies.This episode is packed with inspiring personal stories, coaching wisdom, and valuable lessons for players and coaches alike.


00:00 Intro

02:09 Approaching the Fall and Off-Season

04:53 The Evolution of the Takeaway Defender

07:10 Psychological Aspects of Defense

12:23 Scouting Reports and Team Dynamics

15:37 Defensive Strategies and Player Development

23:06 Jake Piseno and “Short” Defenders

33:05 Teaching Defensive Checks

34:26 Positioning and Footwork

34:51 College Career at Albany and Scott Marr

40:45 Impact of the Thompsons on Lacrosse

51:51 Coaching at Farmingdale

57:27 Overtime Scenarios and Favorite Drills

01:04:07 Conclusion and Future Plans

Join for an in-depth conversation with Auburn Lacrosse Head Coach JJ Arminio as he sits down to discuss the evolution and aspirations of the program. JJ provides insights into maintaining consistency in coaching staff, the impact of NIL agreements, strategies for overcoming tough rivals like Georgia and Georgia Tech, and the importance of alumni support.

They also reminisce about the transformation from a 'beer league' to a competitive club, the recruitment process, and the personal growth of players. War Eagle!


00:00 Welcome and War Eagle

01:28 Building the Coaching Staff

03:20 NIL and MCLA Program

07:30 Challenges and Rivalries with Georgia and Georgia Tech

14:46 Fall Ball Updates

19:39 Program Growth since 2018 and Alumni Support

30:19 Challenges in MCLA

34:06 Player Development and Team Philosophy

36:02 Offensive Strategies and Player Roles

40:13 Practice Techniques and Team Chemistry

46:41 Reflecting on the 2024 Season

52:18 Final Thoughts and Future Goals

Join host Zach Quezada as he sits down with Mike Morgan, former HC at Merrimack where he won 2 back-to-back National Championships. This episode dives into Mike's defensive philosophy, understanding recruiting strategies, and the art of building a strong team culture. Discover how Morgan developed Merrimack's cohesive unity, the evolution of his defensive tactics, and key insights into managing the transition from Division 2 to Division 1.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

01:33 How to Manage the Recruiting Process 

06:54 Player Development and Success Stories

14:19 Defensive Coaching Insights

20:52 Impact of NIL and Scholarship Changes

30:05 Defensive Strategies, Shapes, and Communication

30:51 Breaking Down Defensive Shapes and Tactics

34:30 Evolution of Defensive Techniques in 30 years

42:04 Impact of Shot Clock on Defensive Strategies

45:12 Building a Championship Program at Merrimack

55:09 Reflecting on the 2018 Playoff Run

57:21 Fighting Complacency in 2019

59:38 The Road to the 2019 Championship

01:06:35 Transition to Division 1

01:08:27 Post-COVID Achievements and Reflections

01:10:07 Overtime - 30 seconds left + Favorite Drill

Welcome to Episode 2 of 'The Ride' with host Zach Quezada. In this episode, we sit down with Pat Aiello, head coach of Kellam Lacrosse.

We discuss the importance of the pick game, effective shooting techniques, and the experience of transitioning high school lacrosse programs to the next level game management, and developing effective practice drills.

00:00 Intro

01:59 Coaching Journey Across the Country

06:09 Playing at Hofstra

10:21 Transition to Coaching

17:21 Challenges of Starting New Programs

20:59 Shooting Techniques and Training

28:33 The Role and Impact of Faceoff Players

32:50 Two Man Game

34:27 Managing Game Situations and Player Development

44:33 Reflecting on the Season and Future Goals

48:36 Overtime Questions - Best Practice Drill

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