Lax Goalie Rat Podcast

LGR 280: Poise Over Perfection with Stevenson goalie Tyler Merchant

Send us a textStevenson University goalie Tyler Merchant joins the show to share how an eighth-grade “I’ll hop in” moment turned into a college career. We dig into the perfectionist/overthinker paradox, learning poise by studying goalies like Logan McNaney, and practical reset routines (yes, even the blink-and-wipe “hard drive” trick). Tyler walks through his Florida-to-boarding-school journey, a reclass year, committing to Catholic, transferring to Stevenson, and what D3 vs. D1 really feels like from the crease. We also hit leadership when your team turns over captains, staying locked in during quiet stretches, drills for feet and balance (walk your arc, tennis-ball footwork), stick talk (Eclipse III + ghost pocket), stringing heads, and using ADHD as a superpower for film and reps. He closes with advice to enjoy the grind—because you only get these four years once.You’ll hear about:The ego check of first stepping in net—and why Tyler stuck with itUsing perfectionism to fuel practice without choking performanceComposure cues after goals and during momentum swingsRecruiting, reclassing, and the transfer portal—what he’d tell HS goaliesD3 competition level, depth, and the Mustang Classic thriller vs. St. LawrenceFootwork/balance drills, arc positioning from X, and communication habitsADHD, focus hacks, and building a repeatable game-day routineFinal takeaway: Enjoy it. Treat it like a job you love—and you’ll keep coming back better.Support the show

LGR 279: For the Love of the Game with Colorado Goalie Elena Oh

Send us a textColorado sophomore goalie Elena Oh’s path to the net is anything but traditional.Before lacrosse, she spent 12 years competing in jump rope, and she didn’t even start playing goalie until after her freshman year of high school. Just a year and a half later, she found herself committing to Colorado — her only offer — and now she’s making a name for herself in the Big 12.Last season, the former Lax Goalie Rat summer intern was named to the Big 12 All-Newcomer Team, earned Goalkeeper of the Week four times in a row, and set a career high in her second appearance with a .667 save percent in her second appearance ever.In this episode, Elena talks about her journey from picking up a stick late to becoming Colorado’s starter as a freshman. From a PVC goal in her basement to her first appearance in a game versus the then-reigning national champions, Oh shares how much she simply loves the game and how that love has carried her through the pressures of college lacrosse.For her, it’s about playing for fun, playing for her teammates, and remembering the “why” behind it all. She dives into the mental side of goalkeeping too — how she resets after tough moments and keeps perspective in the net.Elena also reflects on representing Team Korea at the U20 World Championships, an experience that deepened her appreciation for different cultures and for the opportunities lacrosse has given her.While the Korean national team wasn't a high finisher, Oh reflected on playing with a language barrier and being a part of the movement to spread the sport. Whether it’s competing on an international stage or making her first collegiate appearance against Northwestern, Elena plays with gratitude, joy, and a mindset that keeps her grounded.Great conversation with podcast editor and former intern Elena Oh, SKO BUFFS!Support the show

LGR 278: The Fiery Competitor: Michael Ippoliti on Syracuse, Team Italy, and Goalie Life

Send us a textSyracuse goalie Michael Ippoliti joins the show to share his incredible lacrosse journey—from growing up in Farmingdale, NY, to earning his spot with the Orange, and now representing Team Italy on the international stage.We dive into:The moment he first stepped into the crease as a kid 🥍How playing multiple sports shaped his goalie gameHis unique style of baiting shooters and leading a defenseTraining and competing at Syracuse alongside elite goaliesScoring a goal and making history at the European Championships with Italy 🇮🇹Lessons for young goalies on recruiting, leadership, and trusting the processMichael’s story is packed with passion, grit, and wisdom for players and coaches alike. Whether you’re chasing your dreams in the cage or just love the game, this episode will fire you up.Support the show

LGR 277: Oran Gelinas - Patience, Poise, and Big Saves for the Blue Jays

Send us a textIn this episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, Johns Hopkins goalie Oren Gelinas breaks down what it really takes to play at the highest level. From starting out in the crease as a kid, to earning starts for Hopkins, Oren shares the drills, routines, and mental game hacks that helped him level up.You’ll hear how he:Uses visualization and self-talk to build confidence.Stays loose and patient instead of tensing up on shots.Trains his hands, feet, and reaction time with specific goalie drills.Deals with bad days, tough games, and bouncing back stronger.Creates flow state and plays with freedom instead of overthinking.If you’re serious about becoming a better goalie, this episode is packed with tips you can try in your next practice or game.Support the show

LGR 276: From Crease to Commentary: Ray Carnicelli’s Lacrosse Journey

Send us a textJoin Coach Damon Wilson on this episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast as he chats with Ray Carnicelli, the passionate voice of Jacksonville University lacrosse and a former standout goalie from Cortland St. (now SUNY Cortland) (Class of 1990). Dive into Ray's lacrosse origins in the early 1980s, from backyard games to his first formal gig in ninth grade, and how he honed his skills without today's online resources—relying on mentors, observation, and sheer passion.Ray shares nostalgic tales of the sport's evolution: bucket helmets, muddy fields with unpredictable bounces, and the shift from "crazy guy or fat kid" goalies to today's athletic giants. Hear about his roundabout path to Cortland via junior college, backing up an All-American, and peaking post-college in Florida's competitive scene. As a broadcaster, Ray reveals his prep secrets—like detailed roster charts and high-energy calls—and why he celebrates saves from both sides.Packed with goalie wisdom: tips for backups (trust coaches, lead off-field, master clearing), developing vocal communication, the "head, ball, pocket" mantra for focus, and drills like rapid-fire saves with a zip-tied stick. Ray emphasizes compartmentalizing life stresses, staying passionate, and having fun—or finding another position!Whether you're a young goalie, coach, or fan, this episode blends storytelling, mindset advice, and broadcasting insights. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and lacrosse love. Subscribe and join the LAX Goalie Rat Academy at laxgoalierat.com/camp for more training gold!Support the show