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