In this episode of New England Lacrosse Journal's Chasing the Gold podcast, host Kyle Devitte goes solo and engages in an extensive conversation with contributor Dan Arestia. They discuss the evolving landscape of lacrosse journalism, the challenges and joys of covering this niche sport, and the impact of COVID-19 on their professional dynamics. They also delve into personal anecdotes about their experiences in lacrosse journalism and discuss predictions for the upcoming Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) semifinals, with in-depth analysis on team strategies, key players, and potential outcomes.

Topics

00:34 Guest Introduction: Dan Arestia

01:03 The Impact of COVID on Lacrosse

01:51 Dan's Journey into Lacrosse Writing

07:23 Balancing Passion and Profession

10:12 Challenges in Lacrosse Journalism

17:59 Covering D2 and D3 Lacrosse

23:17 Collaborative Efforts and Fun in Reporting

29:55 The Impact of AI on Writing Jobs

31:38 Challenges of Managing Social Media and Trolls

33:15 The Importance of Responding to Messages

34:29 Transition to PLL Semifinals Discussion

34:43 Analyzing the PLL Semifinals Matchups

36:22 Chaos vs. Archers: A Deep Dive

41:21 The Role of Coaches in Team Success

54:54 Predictions and Final Thoughts

56:21 Closing Remarks and Plugs

In this episode of the 'Chasing the Goal' podcast, hosts Kyle Devitte and Jack Piatelli talk with Drew Bourdeau, the new head coach of St. Anselm College's lacrosse team. Drew discusses his recent transition from coaching at Bedford High School, the exciting prospects at St. A's, and his plans to maintain and elevate the already strong lacrosse culture. He shares insights into his coaching philosophy, recruitment strategies, and the importance of tradition and culture in building a successful program. The episode also touches on the evolving dynamics of college recruiting, the significance of the New England lacrosse scene, and the challenges and opportunities presented by modern conferences and streaming arrangements.

Chasing the Goal podcast from New England Lacrosse Journal is a Seamans Media production.

Find more daily lacrosse news at New England Lacrosse Journal: https://www.laxjournal.com/

Topics

01:56 Guest Introduction

02:44 Drew's Journey to Head Coach

05:54 Transforming St. Anselm's Lacrosse Program

17:21 Recruitment Strategies and Challenges

23:57 The Growth of Lacrosse Broadcasting

25:03 Epic Games and Coaching at Bedford

26:22 Spotlight on Bennett Matthews

30:40 Youth Programs and Player Development

33:24 Choosing the Right College for Lacrosse

44:12 Fall Ball and Future Plans

46:01 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of the New England Lacrosse Journal’s Chasing the Goal podcast, Kyle and Jack welcome lacrosse legend Matt Hogan. Starting from his college days at Springfield College, Hogan shares his extensive coaching journey, including impactful stints at the University of Maryland and Delaware. He also discusses the evolution of the game, the advancements in equipment and rules, and the increasing challenges in the club lacrosse landscape, such as unethical practices and the pressures of recruitment. Additionally, Hogan gives insights into his successful Hogan Lacrosse enterprise and emphasizes the importance of fostering competitiveness, integrity, and a love for the game in young players.

Topics

00:36 Guest Introduction: Matt Hogan

01:15 Matt Hogan's Early Coaching Career

02:57 Coaching at University of Maryland and Delaware

06:35 Evolution of Lacrosse: Rules and Equipment

16:28 Debate on Face-Off Rules

26:54 The Unique Possession Rule in Lacrosse

27:37 The Impact of Sixes on Lacrosse Strategy

29:25 Building Hogan Lacrosse: A Personal Journey

34:09 Challenges and Growth in Youth Lacrosse

38:44 The Importance of Competitiveness and Integrity

43:56 The Role of Coaches and Parents in Player Development

49:41 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of the New England Lacrosse Journal's Chasing the Goal podcast, host Kyle Devitte and co-host Jack Piatelli interview Boston Cannons head coach Brian Holman. They discuss Holman's extensive coaching career, his recent neck surgery, and his experiences coaching at various levels from youth to professional lacrosse. Holman shares anecdotes about coaching his own children, the importance of building trust and culture within the team, and the unique challenges of coaching in the PLL. The episode also delves into the potential future of the PLL, including city-based teams and the need for suitable stadiums.

Topics

01:12 Welcoming the Guest: Coach Brian Holman

02:10 Coach Holman's Journey in Lacrosse

08:12 Coaching Philosophy and Personal Growth

17:26 Challenges of Coaching at Different Levels

18:53 Building Team Culture and Trust

22:10 Coaching Family and Personal Reflections

24:01 Sydney's Athletic Journey

24:42 A Tough Coaching Lesson with Marcus

26:19 Coaching Philosophy and Family Bond

28:13 Emotional Moments and Reflections

29:34 Covering Pro Lacrosse: A Personal Perspective

33:05 The Impact of Crowds on Games

35:46 Adapting to Rule Changes in Lacrosse

42:00 Future of Lacrosse: City-Based Teams

45:14 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of the New England Lacrosse Journal's 'Chasing the Goal' podcast, hosts Kyle Devitte and Jack Piatelli welcome returning St. John's Prep head coach John Pynchon. The episode covers Pynchon's coaching journey, the challenges of managing a large and successful lacrosse program, and the cultural values that underpin his team's accomplishments. They delve into the significance of the 2020 Covid season, the impact of star player Jimmy Ayers, and the transitions in high school lacrosse dynamics, including the role of club teams. The discussion also touches on the perceptions and criticisms faced by successful programs and the importance of focusing on the development of students beyond the sport. The episode closes with reflections on the potential for new competitive structures in high school lacrosse.

Topics

01:23 Guest Introduction: John Pynchon

02:00 The Lightning Delay Game

05:39 Jimmy Ayers: A Star Player

10:50 Building a Successful Program

15:06 Challenges and Misconceptions

22:42 Dealing with Criticism

28:26 Addressing Animosity in Coaching

29:33 Complaints and Misconceptions

32:05 Building a Winning Program

34:27 Challenges and Growth

38:45 Proposing a Super Catholic League

43:54 Balancing Club and High School Lacrosse

50:23 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

Host Kyle Devitte is joined by guest Ryan Conwell. They delve into Ryan's lacrosse journey, starting from high school in Liverpool, New York, transitioning to college experiences, and his significant involvement with box lacrosse. The episode highlights the competitive nature of senior men's lacrosse in the NABLL, the inception and evolution of the Nor'easters, and the short-lived yet memorable experience of the PBLA with the Chowder Heads. Conwell also discusses the importance of officiating in lacrosse and shares insights on his involvement with the moon bears in international tournaments like the one in Prague. The episode wraps with Devitt's gratitude towards Conwell for his contributions to the sport and his personal aspirations in lacrosse.

Topics

00:21 Guest Introduction: Ryan Conwell

00:49 High School Lacrosse Memories

01:45 College Lacrosse Journey

02:58 Lacrosse Forums and Online Community

04:05 Ranking Lacrosse Fan Bases

13:21 Transition to Box Lacrosse

19:46 Founding the Nor'easters

24:33 The Core Four Teams

25:09 The NABLL League Structure

25:31 Rebuilding and Tryouts

26:29 The Value of Summer League

30:14 The Moon Bears Journey

33:19 The PBLA Experience

40:46 The Importance of Being a Good Teammate

43:23 Referee Shortage and Challenges

52:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Kyle is joined by Owen Hart, coach at Westwood High. Owen shares his journey from learning lacrosse as a high school student to becoming a coach. The duo delves into coaching experiences, emphasizing the differences between coaching varsity and JV, and the importance of teaching fundamentals. They also review and provide insights into the MIAA Division 1 and Division 2 lacrosse brackets, highlighting teams, potential upsets, and key matchups to watch. The episode is filled with personal anecdotes, in-depth analysis, and a light-hearted take on the lacrosse community.

Topics

01:08 Owen Hart's Lacrosse Journey 02:44 Coaching During COVID-19 04:54 Challenges of Coaching High School Lacrosse 12:30 The Role of Video Production in Lacrosse 19:29 JV Coaching Stories 30:31 A Scrimmage Lesson 31:09 Varsity vs JV: Proving Yourself 31:43 Small Things Matter in Lacrosse 32:34 Game of Execution 33:18 Coaching Philosophy and Experience 34:11 D1 Bracket Analysis 35:36 Massachusetts Lacrosse Drama 48:30 Division 2 Bracket Insights 54:11 Concluding Thoughts and Predictions

The guest is North Andover Head Coach Steve Zella. He covers topics such as the transition of teams between divisions, the impact of influential coaches and the strategies behind preparing a young team for success. Coach Zella shares his coaching journey, style, and the challenges faced this season. The conversation highlights the significance of character-building, adapting coaching methods for younger players, and the ongoing growth and development of lacrosse at the high school level.

Topics

01:29 North Andover's Season and Division Move 02:52 Coaching Journey: From Brookline to North Andover 05:35 Coaching Philosophy and Style 11:34 Impact of Coaching on Players' Lives 16:19 Challenges and Realizations in Coaching 20:26 Adapting Coaching Methods 21:43 Season Overview and Tournament Discussion 22:40 Reflecting on Last Season's Challenges 22:56 Building a Strong Schedule 23:10 Current Season Performance 23:20 Team Composition and Key Players 23:54 Game Highlights and Key Matches 24:51 Player Development and Future Goals 25:36 Coaching Strategies and Adjustments 29:13 Offensive Tactics and Plays 34:47 Defensive Strategies and Zone Attacks 37:44 Upcoming Game Against Bedford 40:40 Final Thoughts and Farewell