Jesse Bernhardt, Defensive Coordinator of University of Maryland, joins The Ride to discuss building great defense.

Topics include teaching phases of 1 on 1 concepts, when and how to engage a dodger, communication and connection between a D unit, and more!

Zack Capozzi, Founder of Lacrosse Reference, returns to The Ride to discuss how best to utilize Data and Analytics to improve both players and teams, what are the most Overvalued/Undervalued metrics, the future of Data in lacrosse and more!

Lacrosse Reference Website

https://lacrossereference.com/

#lax #laxpodcast #lacrosse

Jim Stagnitta, Head Coach of the Maryland Whipsnakes, joins The Ride to discuss his over 30-plus year journey in lacrosse.

Topics include leadership lessons he’s learned at various stops in his career, youth player development and current state of the club and tournament landscape. Finally, we wrap by recapping the Whipsnakes’ 2025 season and looking ahead to their 2026 campaign.

Eric Ruppel, Head Coach of Emory & Henry and Mexican National Team, joins The Ride to discuss the current Olympic and Worlds format, building E&H a day after Hurricane Helene, and updating lacrosse from the stone ages in Strength and Conditioning practices.

Paul Richards, Associate Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator for University of Richmond, joins The Ride to discuss the DNA of Defensive Culture, 3 core principles, the 2025 quarterfinal against Cornell, off-season player development, and more!

Elliot Bender (aka TheBoxLacrosseGuy) joins The Ride to discuss melding Box lacrosse principles into the field game. Other topics include, shooting techniques, 2 man game tips, and playing "paranoid" on the field.

Chris Burke, defensive coordinator at Hampton University, joins The Ride to discus a wide range of topics including Perimeter Midfield Defense, the influence of his Military Background on his Coaching Philosophy, bringing Intensity and Violence to practice, and how Hampton can notch their first win in program history in 2026.

Ryan Lanigan, Defensive Coordinator at Sienna, joins The Ride to discuss the correct way to teach sliding and recovering, the benefits of the V-hold, defensive strategies, footwork on approaches and how to foster player development.

Coach Kyle Hayes, Offensive Coordinator for LIU, joins for an insightful conversation on offensive player development, principles of offensive play and the path from playing in college to becoming a coach. They discuss the importance of creativity in offense, the art of breaking bad habits, effective recruiting strategies, and the significance of a strong riding and ground ball swarm mentality.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

05:15 Coaching Journey and Imposter Syndrome

09:22 Recruiting and Building a Brand

27:24 Fall Season and Offensive Principles

39:13 Key Concepts in Lacrosse Offense

39:30 Breaking Down ROA: Range, Open, Angle

42:45 Gap Theory and Creating Space

44:27 Attacking Vertical Space

46:35 Swarm Mentality in Lacrosse

49:36 Effective Riding Techniques

01:00:28 Balancing Creativity and Structure in Offense

01:07:55 Favorite Drills and Practice Techniques

01:12:43 Final Thoughts

Tom Mariano, Head Coach at Pace University, joins The Ride to talk the importance of skill development, practice planning as he delves into his extensive experience and innovative methods. Learn about his journey, from coaching college teams to international squads like Korea, and gain insights into motivational strategies, practice drills, and how to foster a love for the game. Whether you're a coach, player, or enthusiast, this episode is packed with invaluable advice and real-world anecdotes that highlight the nuances of developing successful and passionate lacrosse athletes.

Tom Mariano Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/tom_marianocoach/