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🎙️ Youth Phenom Ky "Ky the Goalie" Maradiaga on Chasing Big Goalie Dreams

This week, Coach Damon chats with rising youth star Kyrie “Ky” Maradiaga, a 12-year-old goalie making big waves in the lacrosse world. 

From his first save to training with PLL and NLL legends like Brett Dobson, Ky shares what it’s like learning the position, how box lacrosse has shaped his field game, and the mindset that keeps him focused through the highs and lows.

We dive into:

• How he got started (thanks to a school officer 👮‍♂️)
• Lessons from elite goalies like Dobson and Sean Byrne
• Building confidence, handling chirps, and playing free
• His goals: NCAA All-American, PLL/NLL pro, and future broadcaster 🎯

A fun and inspiring convo with one of the brightest young minds in the game. Let’s go, Ky! 🥍🔥

📣 Presented by ThighPro Protection – Get 10% off: thighpro.com/lgr
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As Mercyhurst University makes its ambitious leap into NCAA Division I men’s lacrosse, one name to watch between the pipes is sophomore goalie Jaret Jawor.

A native of Lockport, Illinois, Jawor played his high school lacrosse at Wheaton Academy, where he developed into a strong and athletic netminder. Now standing at 6-foot-3, Jawor brings size, reach, and a calming presence to the crease—traits that are quickly turning heads in his second collegiate season.

Jawor made his college debut in 2024, seeing time in six games as a freshman. He made 21 saves while posting a 6.95 goals-against average and an impressive .618 save percentage, finishing the season with a 1–0 record. His early showings hinted at potential, and in 2025, that potential has started to materialize.

This season, Jawor has stepped into a more active role, appearing in five games and making one start. Across 143 minutes of action, he's registered:

• 38 saves
• 36 goals against
• 15.06 GAA
• .514 save percentage
• 1–1 overall record

But the numbers only tell part of the story.

In NEC conference play, Jawor has stepped up under pressure, delivering a .571 save percentage across two appearances—highlighted by a standout 19-save performance against Robert Morris. Though the Lakers didn’t secure the win, Jawor’s poise and shot-stopping ability stood out in a hard-fought matchup.

The 2025 season is a landmark one for Mercyhurst. After years of dominance at the Division II level, the Lakers have entered the Division I stage with a youthful roster, a new head coach in Trey Keeley, and something to prove. While postseason eligibility will have to wait, performances from players like Jawor have helped Mercyhurst secure key wins—most notably a dominant 22–6 victory over Hampton.

As Mercyhurst builds its foundation in Division I, Jaret Jawor is emerging as a core piece of that future. With two years of eligibility left and a growing confidence in the cage, expect Jawor to continue evolving into one of the NEC’s top goaltenders.

Keep your eye on No. 12—he’s just getting started. Enjoy my conversation with future star Jaret Jawor.

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Owen Salanger has quickly made a name for himself as a standout goalie for the University of Massachusetts men’s lacrosse team.

A freshman from Liverpool, New York, Salanger has demonstrated exceptional skill, composure, and leadership in the cage, earning Honorable Mention All-American honors from USA Lacrosse Magazine.

His ability to make clutch saves and control the defense has been a key factor in UMass’s success this season.

Salanger’s lacrosse journey began at Liverpool High School, where he was a dominant force in goal. His performances earned him a spot at UMass, where he wasted no time making an impact.

In his freshman season, he posted an impressive 9-5 record as a starter, with a 9.36 goals-against average and a .565 save percentage. His 165 saves rank as the third-most all-time for a freshman netminder at UMass, proving his ability to handle high-pressure situations.

Throughout the season, Salanger has delivered standout performances, including 16 saves against Brown, 13 saves against Albany, and 12 saves against Richmond.

His consistency and ability to read the game have placed him among the top 10 goalies in the nation in save percentage and top 15 in goals-against average.

His contributions were instrumental in UMass’s push for success in the Atlantic 10 Conference, where he made 59 saves in five A-10 games.

Off the field, Salanger continues to refine his skills and study the game, drawing inspiration from elite goalies who have come before him.

His dedication to improvement and his ability to perform under pressure make him a promising talent for UMass lacrosse. As he continues to develop, Salanger is poised to become one of the premier goalies in collegiate lacrosse.

Enjoy my conversation with elite freshman goalie Owen Salanger.

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Fairfield Goalie Owen Hirsch: Confidence Is Contagious

In this episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon sits down with Fairfield University goalie Owen Hirsch to talk all things between the pipes. Owen shares his inspiring journey from a young, pad-covered beginner to D1 starter, highlighting how he conquered his fear of the ball and developed elite confidence in the cage.

The conversation dives deep into goalie mindset, techniques like the "Philly Flow" system, the importance of routines, and why confidence is contagious—especially in the goalie position. Owen also reflects on his team’s incredible 9–0 start, lessons learned from setbacks, and how leadership and mental toughness are shaping his approach going into his fifth year.

Whether you're a youth goalie, a coach, or a proud goalie parent, this episode is packed with relatable insights and actionable tips to level up your game. And yes—we even talk about how to eat the elephant… one piece at a time.

Sponsored by:

• Thigh Pro Protection: Protect your legs without sacrificing mobility – thighpro.com/lgr
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Maura Spicer is a promising young lacrosse player for Cherokee High School in Marlton, New Jersey. A member of the Class of 2028, Spicer plays as a goalkeeper for the Cherokee Girls Varsity Lacrosse team.

Spicer has already begun making an impact on the field. During the 2024-2025 season, she recorded eight saves across three games, averaging 6.06 saves per game. Her standout performances include a ten-save game against Cinnaminson and a eight-save effort in a dominant win over Lenape.

Beyond her contributions to Cherokee High School, Spicer has also competes with All American Aim, a lacrosse club based in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. This club provides athletes with resources to navigate the recruiting process and develop their skills at a high level. She also competes in a Box Lacrosse League for Girls becoming a pioneer for the indoor sport.

As she continues her high school career, Spicer is poised to refine her abilities and gain more experience in competitive play. With her dedication and growing skill set, she is a player to watch in the coming years. Enjoy my conversation with young standout goalie Maura Spicer.

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Daniella (Danny) Guyette is an emerging talent in collegiate lacrosse, recognized for her agility, composure, and leadership as a goalkeeper for Syracuse University.

Originally from Newbury Park, California, Guyette’s lacrosse journey began at Newbury Park High School, where she was a standout player. She earned multiple accolades, including three-time All-Marmonte League First Team and All-Ventura County First Team honors. Her senior year was particularly impressive, as she posted a .590 save percentage with 130 saves in just 12 games. She was also named to US Lacrosse’s Fab 50 and played in the Adrenaline All-American Senior Game.

At Syracuse, Guyette has continued to develop her skills. After missing her freshman season due to injury, she made her collegiate debut in 2024, playing in seven games and recording a 7.63 goals-against average with a .524 save percentage. She made her first career save against Virginia Tech and had a season-high three saves against UAlbany.

Guyette’s dedication to the sport has been shaped by her admiration for past Syracuse goalies. Growing up, she studied the play styles of standout SU goalkeepers like Asa Goldstock and Delaney Sweitzer, incorporating elements of their game into her own. Now, with Sweitzer’s transfer to Northwestern, Guyette is poised to take on a larger role as Syracuse’s starting goalie in 2025.

Off the field, Guyette is pursuing a degree in forensic science and has been recognized for her academic achievements, earning spots on the ACC Academic Honor Roll and the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll.

The start to her Syracuse career didn't go exactly as planned as Guyette suffered a knee injury keeping her out the entire year. We talk about the process of overcoming an injury like that both mentally and physically.

Her journey from a determined high school athlete to a rising collegiate star serves as an inspiration to young lacrosse players aiming to make their mark at the next level.

Enjoy my conversation with outstanding Syracuse goalie Danny Guyette.

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Podcast interview with Carolina Tar Heels goalie Betty Nelson. 

At UNC, Nelson quickly made her mark. In her first collegiate start, she recorded seven saves, contributing to a dominant 14-2 victory over James Madison. Throughout the 2025 season, she has maintained a save percentage over 50% and played a pivotal role in UNC's top-ranked scoring defense. Her exceptional performance earned her a spot on the 2025 Tewaaraton Award Watch List, recognizing her as one of the nation's elite players.​

Off the field, Nelson is pursuing a degree in psychology and is known for her dedication to mentoring younger players. She emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, preparation, and teamwork. Her journey from a young girl playing in boys' leagues to a standout collegiate athlete serves as an inspiration to aspiring lacrosse players everywhere. Enjoy my talk with star UNC goalie Betty Nelson. 

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In this podcast episode, Notre Dame goalie Isabel Pithie opens up about the mental side of goalkeeping and how she stays focused and ready for action. A key theme of her journey has been mental preparation—whether it’s staying locked in during games, visualizing key moments, or learning how to reset after conceding a goal.

She talks about how visualization and awareness of the game’s flow keep her mentally sharp, even when not in the cage. Pre-game, she keeps it simple with quick jogs and feel-good shots, focusing more on confidence than technical adjustments. The trust in her extensive training helps her feel ready when called upon as a backup goalie.

Izzy also dives into the importance of positive self-talk. Phrases like "Patience" and "Aggression" help her stay composed and assertive. Even when facing frustrations or tough moments, she uses these mantras to reset and keep her mindset focused on the next play.

Through her journey from watching the game as a kid to standing confidently in net for the Irish, Izzy has developed a strong mental game, which she credits to both visualization and positive self-talk. She emphasizes how goalies need to stay resilient and focus on the process, not the mistakes.

For younger goalies, Izzy's advice is clear: prioritize footwork, maintain a strong team mentality, and always remember why you play. Whether through gear preferences, self-talk, or keeping calm under pressure, Izzy’s approach offers valuable insights for goalies at all levels.

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Podcast interview with Brown goalie Connor Foley. 

Brown University goalie Connor Foley has been turning heads this season with a .560 save percentage, Ivy League Defensive Player of the Week honors, and an Inside Lacrosse HM All-American. But what sets Foley apart isn’t just stats—it’s his energy, style, and mindset.

He joins the show to discuss his lacrosse goalie game and the lessons he's learned along the way. 

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Podcast interview with Tommy Gross, starting lacrosse goalie for the St. Josephs Hawks. 

We dig into him learning the position of lacrosse goalie at a young age, some mental lessons he's learned along the way, and a lesson from last year's A10 championship game he'll never forget. 

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Podcast interview with Army West Point goalie Sean Byrne discussing his lacrosser goalie career, his faith, and the Black Knights 2025 season so far. 

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Podcast interview with Rutgers goalie Cardin Stoller discusses his lacrosse goalie journey and the goalie tips he's learned along the way. 

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Interview with Vermont men's lacrosse goalie Ryan Daly. 

Ryan Daly’s journey to becoming Vermont’s starting goalie has been anything but predictable—just the way he likes it. The Norwell, Massachusetts native describes himself as spontaneous, which is fitting given his introduction to the position. His first time in goal was an impulse decision, and now, as a sophomore, he’s stepped into a starting role for the Catamounts.

In this episode, Daly breaks down his development as a goalie, from early struggles to the drills that helped shape his game. He credits legendary player and coach Bill Daye for refining his technique through club lacrosse and private training, incorporating tools like weighted shafts and band resistance to build strength and precision. He reflects on past challenges and shares what he would do differently now, offering advice for younger goalies facing similar obstacles.

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Podcast interview with high school junior lacrosse goalie Lindsay Stubenvoll. 

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Interview with high school sophomore from North Carolina Jackson Runkle discussing his lacrosse career to date. 

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Podcast interview with University of Utah alum and founder of Adaptive goaltending Connor Hollison. 

Discussing his lacrosse goalie path and the keys for the youngsters to succeed in net. 

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Podcast interview with Penn State lacrosse goalie Jack Fracyon. 

We discuss his journey from midfielder to elite goalie, handling pressure, mental resilience, and top training tips. Learn from his experience, mindset, and insights as he prepares for his final collegiate season. 

Tune in for expert goalie advice!

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Podcast interview with female goalie Piper Dalsemer, a 2027 high school sophomore from California discusses her approach to the position of lacrosse goalie. 

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Podcast interview with Boston University women's lacrosse goalie Zoe Inglis discussing topics like building confidence, creating a community and leaving a legacy. 

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In this episode we about the science and the training of vision with True Focus Vision founder Josh Tucker. 

Josh is an ice hockey goalie and used extensive vision training exercises to increase his ability on the ice. In this podcast episode we talk about those drills, the science behind vision, and how this type of training can benefit lacrosse goalies. 

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In this episode of the LAX Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon Wilson sits down with Aidan Seibel, the #1 ranked high school goalie in his class and future Maryland Terrapin. Aidan shares his incredible lacrosse journey—from his first time jumping into goal as a determined fourth grader to becoming an All-American, MIAA Player of the Year, and committing to his dream school, the University of Maryland.

Throughout the conversation, Aidan dives into his training regimen, mindset hacks, and routines that help him play with confidence and swagger. He discusses the importance of getting out of your comfort zone, working hard beyond practice, and his pregame ritual of squirting water into the air to form the number 1—reminding himself that he’s the best on the field.

Aidan also talks about the lessons he’s learned from top coaches like Scotty Rodgers, the Goalie Smith team, and Jack Runkel at the Goalie Workshop. Whether you’re a goalie looking to improve your game or a lacrosse fan who loves hearing from the sport’s rising stars, this episode is packed with motivation, insights, and actionable tips.

Highlights Include:

• How Aidan learned to make saves and developed his wide base stance
• Overcoming adversity and learning the value of being a good teammate
• The mental game: handling goals, staying confident, and bouncing back
• His unique pregame water squirt ritual
• The recruiting process and his commitment to Maryland
• His partnership with STX as a high school athlete

Tune in for this inspiring chat with one of the top young goalies in the game!

🔗 Follow Aidan Seibel on Instagram to see his game highlights and training sessions.
🎧 LAX Goalie Rat Academy: Get elite lacrosse goalie training at laxgoalierat.com/camp.

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In this episode of the LAX Goalie Rat Podcast, we sit down with Michigan lacrosse goalie Hunter Taylor (#52) to dive into his inspiring journey between the pipes. Hunter shares his unique insights on controlling the controllables, maintaining a competitive mindset, and building trust with teammates both on and off the field.

We discuss the lessons he brought from football to lacrosse, his evolution as a goalie, and his thoughts on finding balance in a demanding collegiate schedule. Hunter also opens up about his recruiting process, overcoming setbacks, and the importance of body language and communication in shaping a goalie’s game.

Whether you're a goalie, coach, or lacrosse enthusiast, you'll leave with practical tips and motivation to level up your game. Tune in for a conversation packed with wisdom, passion, and a love for the game!

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In this episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, we chat with Nick Pecora, starting goalie for Lehigh University. 🥍 Nick opens up about his journey from a backyard lacrosse player in New York to earning the starting job at the Division I level. Along the way, he shares invaluable insights about the mental and physical aspects of goaltending, the challenges of recruiting, and how a love for the game shaped his success.

🚨 What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How Nick developed his passion for lacrosse at a young age
• The mental reset techniques that help him bounce back after tough goals
• Why falling in love with the process is more important than the outcome
• His unique journey through recruiting and finding the right college fit
• Game-day rituals and drills that keep him sharp between the pipes

Nick’s story is full of inspiration and practical advice for goalies at every level. Whether you’re just starting or chasing your own D1 dreams, this episode is packed with tips to elevate your game. 💪

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In this episode of the LAX Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon sits down with Villanova’s standout goalie, Anthony Wilson, to explore the mental and physical demands of playing one of the most challenging positions in sports. From his early days in goal to his first season starting for Villanova, Anthony shares his journey and the insights that have helped him thrive at the Division 1 level.

They dive into how Anthony’s background in soccer and golf sharpened his reflexes and focus, and why he believes that “next-shot mentality” is essential for any successful goalie. Anthony also discusses his approach to handling pressure, his high-arc positioning technique, and how he uses communication on the field to stay focused. Plus, hear about the unique culture within Villanova’s “goalie room” and their motto, GST: Goalies Stick Together.

Whether you’re a goalie looking for mental game tips or a parent supporting a young athlete, this episode offers tons of valuable insights. Don’t miss it!

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In this episode of the LAX Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon Wilson interviews Quinnipiac University goalie Mason Oak, the reigning MAC Defensive Player of the Year. Mason opens up about his journey from a youth lacrosse player to a standout D1 goalie, sharing valuable insights on mastering patience, developing the "next-shot mentality," and staying calm under pressure. He dives into his training regimen, stick setup, and the personalized drills that keep him game-ready. Mason also reflects on his leadership style and offers practical advice for young goalies looking to improve their game. Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with tips and stories that any lacrosse player, coach, or fan can learn from!

Topics covered:

• Patience and mental resilience as a goalie
• Mason’s unique training drills and angle techniques
• Goalie stick setup, stringing, and rebound control
• Leadership, goal-setting, and handling setbacks in high-stakes games

Whether you're a lacrosse goalie, coach, or fan, this episode is full of insights to elevate your understanding of the game.

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