Performing at an elite level isn’t about doing special things. It’s about focusing on the basics and the fundamentals; then executing them with precision. A coach’s job is to harness the energy of the players and direct it towards a common goal. 

As we gear up for the first ever Stars and Stripes Classic, Fran Racioppi sat down with the Head Coach of the California Redwoods and Army Reservist Nat St. Laurent.

Nat’s primary mission is to take a group of elite alpha lacrosse athletes all capable of big things and get them to focus on the little details; a skill he learned teaching soldiers to throw hand grenades as an instructor. He shares his Army lessons learned and how they made him a better coach.

Nat also provided his perspective on the growth of the Premier Lacrosse League, how regional affiliation has enhanced the fan base, and how everything the PLL does is all out; including the 2-point shot. 

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with one of the PLL’s inaugural coaches, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic. 

Don’t forget to go to Green Beret Foundation to  join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters take on the Frogmen. 

Highlights

• 0:00 Introduction
• 2:27 Welcome to Fairfield University
• 3:14 PLL regional affiliation
• 5:06 Growing the PLL fan base
• 6:47 What Army lessons do you use as a coach?
• 9:28 PLL player development
• 11:32 The 2-point shot
• 13:12 Staying focused in down times
• 14:54 Stars and Stripes Classic

Quotes

• “Whatever the PLL does it’s all out.” 
• “Being part of something bigger than yourself…it becomes an honor.” 
• “It is extremely important to do those little things right and to do it with a purpose that’s bigger than yourself. 
• “Our mindset every game is 1-0. We can’t do anything about the results from previous games.” 
• “They’re not going to be able to turn over their compete level.” 

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League for hosting us at Fairfield University and for sponsoring the Stars and Stripes Classic.