More Than A Club

Philly Hall of Fame goaltending phenom Drew Adams shares his wise insights on “the journey” from Delco to the PLL and home again. Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode! After a high school All-American career Drew headed to Penn State University where he was ECAC Rookie of the Year, ECAC Goalie of the Year twice, and 3X USILA Honorable Mention All-American. Drew thrived as a professional playing for the MLL (Major Lacrosse League) New York Lizards where he played in six MLL All-Star games and won a League Championship in 2015. Additionally, he was MLL Goalie of the Year three times. He also played in the PLL for the Archers LC. On the international stage, Drew won a silver medal with Team USA in 2014. Since his retirement, Drew has been inducted into the eastern PA Chapter of the USA Lacrosse Hall of Fame and has been busy living and working in the Villanova/Delco area. We hope you enjoy the show. 6:00: For parents:  The even-keeled unconditional support from parents of student-athletes. Post-game in the Adams family. Subtle observations and support. 9:00: For coaches:  Goaltending: First save the ball. Be mentally tough. Lead the team. It's not a perfect science. Are there goalie non-negotiables? 17:56: For players:  Culture building with the MLL New York Lizards – they made sacrifices! The Team USA experience and dealing with, playing with, and enjoying the talent of the Canadians. Questions & Answers 24:50: Influential youth league and high school influential coaches. Coaches who made an impact growing up in a special community. 28:45: The tradition, the power, and the influence of Ridley lacrosse in the Philadelphia area. 31:17: The unfamiliar collegiate recruiting process – club influence and building confidence. 33:20: Choosing PSU and how the goalie recruiting process is different. PSU coaches made a difference. 37:14: PSU memories and heartbreaks. Trying to get “over the hump.” 39:00: Grant Ament and the foreshadowing commercial. A good full-circle story. 41:41: Finding mentors and finding one's stride professionally. 44:40: Brian “Doc” Dougherty and the power of a “goalie community”. 47:00: Transitioning from the MLL to the PLL. Pushing a new league forward. 48:30: Coach Bates, Coach Resch, and the Archers LC. Special times. 50:00: Top shooters and the challenges they bring for a goalie. Canadians – again! 52:50: Walking away from the game. Work and family calls. 54:54: Rapid Fire NXT Homework

Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode!  Today's guest, Paul Kubach is a well-respected referee in Philadelphia and takes us “behind the stripes” when it comes to being an official in today's summer club, high school, and collegiate settings. Paul has “grown with the game” and is now the Treasurer and Assignor of The Greater Philadelphia Lacrosse Officials Association (GPLOA).  Paul gives all listeners a perspective we usually don't ask for, often assume we know better than, and shares how challenging it can be to call a consistent game. We hope you enjoy Paul's insights as much as we enjoyed our time interviewing him.  Youth Sports Hot Topics  00:11: Introduction  3:00: For parents: How refs view parents on the sideline. Do refs even care? Let's not make it personal. A ref's job is……  8:30: For players: Do palms up get a player anywhere?  Better calls? Coaches coach, players play, refs ref. Just focus on the next play and watch your language.  14:45: For coaches: Breaking down the rulebook. The biggest challenges to calling a fair game. Being consistent. Do referees watch film?  Questions & Answers  23:30: Growing up in Northeast Philadelphia as a football and baseball guy. Go Eagles!  24:24: Paul's first introduction to lacrosse. Drop the ball……and never looked back.  27:30: How do refs receive feedback and grow? Rulebook vs learning on the field. Rare calls.  30:34: A convert to the game. How lacrosse won Paul over.   31:50: How to get started as a referee and move up the ranks.   36:00: Being a good ref is more than knowing the rules. It's “how” you show up.  36:45: Understanding all the rules….mens, womens, shot clocks, and more. Fan friendly?    39:50: Calling big games.  Challenges, reflections, and eye black.    44:47: GPLOA. What is it? And what is an Assignor?  How to get started as a ref.  47:50: Rapid Fire NXT Homework 

PLL Champion and superstar Matt Rambo join this show to hang with two of his old coaches. Matt played for Coach Leahy at La Salle College High School and worked with Coach Kupp at The Dukes Lacrosse Club. The guys share stories about Matt's early career and learn more about his current life playing professionally for the PLL Whipsnakes & Philadelphia Wings in the NLL. Topics discussed include a focus on fundamental skills, Matt's historic career at the University of Maryland, celebrating the differences of teammates, coaching high school athletes, and more. Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode! Youth Sports Hot Topics 00:14: Introduction: Philly legend – Chef Matt Rambo. 3:00: For parents: The importance of playing other positions on the field. Matt Rambo a goalie? 9:35: For players: Being a great teammate: La Salle, Maryland, and the Whipsnakes. A family. 18:50: For coaches: Shooting verse throwing at the goal. Born intuition or learned skill? Questions & Answers 24:45: How Matt got started as a youth lacrosse player: ALC. Playing up. Fundamentals. Again! 29:30: His high school experience – La Salle, Recruiting, Academics & State Champions 2013. 32:40: Young Matt Rambo. Losing creates fire and other mantras. Fundamentals x3! 36:00: Team Culture Building on the New Jersey Battleship and Neighborhood Hoops. 39:30: Maryland, Coach Tillman, and a national championship near misses. 42:30: Growing up at the University of Maryland as an attackman and as a person. 45:00: Winning a National Championship. 46:45: A new goal: Team USA. 48:30: NLL and the Indoor Experience. Adjust to a new game and a better outdoor game. 51:00: Hardest defenseman to go against – indoor & out. Best offensive player not named Matt? 55:00: What motivates me? 55:50: Rapid Fire NXT Homework

Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode! Today's guest, Michael Sowers takes listeners on a journey through his lacrosse career. He touches on how unique it is to be a “coaches' kid”, how important it is to learn how to play without the ball, and how important culture has been in his career. He has pronounced high school reflections, leading him to an incredible collegiate, international, and professional career. Youth Sports Hot Topics 00:11: Introduction: Michael Sowers: A Humble Warrior. 2:08: For parents: The Importance of Playing Multiple Sports & Being a “Coaches Kid”. 6:47: For coaches: Being a Complete Attackman with and without the Ball. 15:38: For players: Culture Building from Upper Dublin to the PLL.   Questions & Answers 21:15: Youth ball: Friends for life, growing together. Regrets. 26:35: Running the Numbers 27:00: The Princeton Experience. 30:00: How did your game change at the college level? 31:40: From Covid Changed It All, but lead to Duke 35:00: PLL Waterdogs and Injury. A time away from the game. 37:50: Future Plans…….”I love the game”. USA (again)? 38:50: Word Association & Philly Love 40:15: Rapid Fire NXT Homework

Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode! Patrick walks listeners through his lacrosse journey as a homegrown Philly native. He touches on the importance of playing multiple sports, communicating on the field, being a part of teams with strong cultures, and overcoming setbacks on the way to being one of the best defensive midfielders in the PLL. Youth Sports Hot Topics 6:20: For Parents 8:08: For Coaches 13:50: For Players Questions & Answers 17:45: Patrick's lacrosse story starts in Flourtown, Pa 19:50: Mentors – Players Patrick looked up to as a young athlete 21:05: La Salle Lacrosse experience memories. Dominate teams and the birth of D Midfield 24:22: Being Coached by your dad – a fine line for both. Pretty special. 25:45: The Recruiting Process to Dartmouth. An excellent fit for both 28:45: Lacrosse transitions points. Getting on the field at Dartmouth. 30:25: Freak accident, setback, injury, and resilience. 32:05: An extra year at Duke, Coach D, and the challenges of ACC lacrosse. 35:40: The long journey and commitment to making a career last in the MLL and the PLL. 39:45: The team identity of the PLL Chaos. Aggressive? Box? A behind-the-scenes look. 42:55: USA Sixes. A shot at the unexpected!  46:33: Rapid Fire NXT Homework

Introduction: Danielle Gallagher is a household name in the women's lacrosse world. After a highly decorated playing career, she became a club leader and remains a force to reckon with.  A highly experienced coach, mentor and business owner, Danielle takes us for a spin around the girls club lacrosse scene and shares her passion and perspective along the way.   Youth Sports Hot Topics Burnout  The business of youth sports The positive effects of social media on lacrosse    Show Breakdown 00:13: Danielle's Bio 02:14 Welcome Danielle 3:00  Danielle shares her background and experiences as a multi-sport athlete 4:30  Burnout 9:30  Danielle's Colorado days and carving out her own path in the industry 11:30  Danielle made her way back to “the island” and founded Liberty Lacrosse 12:30  The girls lacrosse club scene takes off in the early 2000's 15:30  Running a club is actually running a business 17:15  Danielle's assessment of the current club landscape and her predictions for the future 19:30 What are  “Mini Pro Athletes”? 21:00  Competition between clubs & capitalism 24:24  Making the most of your club experience: “Club jumpers” don't win in the end 26:40  Why are youth sidelines more toxic than high school sidelines? 35:25  The positive effects of social media on lacrosse    39:45 HOMEWORK Pod recommendation: Linda Flanagan on Youth Sports 41:17 How playing on the B team can make you a pro

Introduction: Jeremy Butt, otherwise known as JB, takes us through the importance of his world – the universe of strength, condition, food, sleep, hydration, and much more. From “embracing the suck” to team fitness center competitions and more JB explains how strength, conditioning, and wellness matter to today's high-level teams and players. Youth Sports Hot Topics 1:15: Introducing JB. 2 Stories for Parents, Coaches, and Players 2:30: Story 1: “Coach, because it's not that, embracing the suck. We play too much”! 8:36: Story 2: “Last Man Standing”: Finding disciplined and mentally tough players through a team weight room “don't quit” challenge. Questions & Answers 14:40: From Canada to the USA, to Wyndmoor, PA. A journey of kinesiology. 18:10: Strength and Conditioning (S & C). What does that even mean? 19:45: S & C is different for different sports, right? Not really. 21:18: What sport works hardest in the weight room? 22:45: (S & C) and Nutrition. 24:10: (S & C) and Recovery (sleep). 25:45: (S & C)and RSI (overuse). 27:30: Finding the “Goldilocks Zone.” 29:10: Free Play. The death of “Sandlot” and “Shinny”: The lost art of creativity and problem- solving. 33:30: How does a club lacrosse coach focus in S&C? 35:10: S&C: Elementary, Middle School, & High School versions. 37:35: Technique matters! So do errors. 38:38: There is a mentality to the weight room! Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard. “Embracing the suck.” 41:35: Rock and Roll: The music of the weight room! Playlists go old school. 43:00: Lacrosse dad, I wonder, “Do the kids play too much”? 46:32: S&C Education. How does someone enter this field? 50:00: Rapid Fire NXT Homework

Today's guest, Corey Shaffer, is the head coach at Ursinus College. His journey has taken him from deep family lacrosse roots to youth lacrosse La Salle College High School, and then to the D3 level as a player and coach. Coach Shaffer's Youth Sports Hot Topics are spot on regarding the club scene, building culture, and the challenges of zone defense. Coach Shaffer shares insights into the value of setbacks, the view of a goalie, finding a home in D3 lacrosse, and the season outlook for the Ursinus College Bears. Youth Sports Hot Topics :20: Introduction: Coach Shaffer's Resume 3:10: For parents: When to join the club lacrosse scene? 7:50: For players: Building the Ursinus culture - player led. 11:45: For coaches: Zone Defense – Legit or not at club and on. Questions & Answers 18:40: Little guy lacrosse, upbringing in the extended Resch lacrosse family. 20:40: How the game looks different as a goalie and from “X.” Plus, goalie tryouts. 22:30: La Salle Lacrosse memories. Not all positive, but resilient. Even goalies do GB drills. 26:12: McDaniel College experience. The value of standing on the sideline. 28:35: Entering into coaching. How? From athletic training to the club to college. Devine lacrosse Providence. Managing egos. 31:50: Collegiate coaching influences and running one's own show at Ursinus. 35:21: Finding a home in D3 lacrosse. Differences between D1 and D3 and the value of being a student-athlete. 38:14: Ursinus College 2023 season outlook – transition year, goals, and challenge welcomed. 38:40: Recruiting at Ursinus and the D3 scene. Lots of Philly guys and NE corridor. 39:45: The value of working at NXT with younger goalies. Covid Therapy. 41:55: Rapid Fire NXT Homework

This episode features Mike Corrado, longtime Head Coach of Villanova Men's Lacrosse. While the guys definitely talk a lot about the Wildcats, we learn about Mike as a teacher, a Twenty-Two year Naval Officer, and how he sees things as a parent of a young athlete who loves multiple sports.   Here are some notes to help you enjoy this episode!   Youth Sports Hot Topics For Parents, 3:00 We need more guidance - there's a lot out there to navigate, it can be overwhelming   For Players, 7:10 Focus on the fundamentals of lacrosse. Even at the college level, the focus is on passing and catching   For Coaches, 12:30 Have 3-4 goals for your practice, with a plan that helps your team get there. Sample practice plan to maximize time   Getting to Know You -From Baseball to Lacrosse at Islip High School -Playing for Randy Marks at Villanova, going on to coach with him -22 years of service in the Navy and Reserves -Juggling a teaching career while being a part-time coach at ‘Nova -Working with Jay Wright around campus  -The 2009 Wildcats were the first to make the NCAA tournament, the 2011 team also stands out with some remarkable players -Some love for Cleveland State Head Coach Andy German, and current VU coaches Chris Miller, Simon O'Connor -Playing in the CAA, and now the Big East Conference amongst Denver, Georgetown -The level of play in the Philly area is among the best in the country -More on Mike's Masters Degree and career as an educator    Rapid Fire Homework, 35:05 For Coaches:  Get to know your players off the field, even at the youth level  For Parents:  Let your child own their athletic experience For Players:  Fundamentals!  ***** Thanks to all of our listeners out there! If you'd like to connect, please email Coach Leahy at bill.leahy@nxtsports.com.   Please help us grow by leaving a positive review and sharing your favorite episode on your social channels!

On this show, our special guest John Bodnar joins us to talk and learn more about the faceoff position.John is a teacher, coach, and the founder of the Philly Faceoff League. Here are some notes to help you enjoy this episode!   Youth Sports Hot Topic: Managing Commitments, High School vs. Club    Getting to Know You: -From Madison, NJ to Cabrini University, with a special thanks to Coach Steve Colfer -A dedicated educator with more than a decade of special ed teaching experience -Coaching under Andy Hayes at Episcopal Academy -The story and start of the Philly Face-off League, 11:00 -PFL Alums who are currently dominating the NCAAs, 15:00 -Partnering with friend Mike Dolente to gather and train the Philly area, and now training youth, middle school and high school athletes -The mindset of a face-off midfielder, 19:00 -Talking more about the high school programs like Haverford School, Malvern Prep, Springfield, La Salle and more, 23:00 -Love for the unique and personal role as a face-off coach and mentor for many, 26:00 -Top traits of face-off guys, 32:30 -Reviewing the face-off rule changes 35:20   Homework, 37:00 For Coaches:  Do more to incorporate face-offs into your practice  For Players:  Go be the most well-rounded lacrosse player you can For Parents:  Find somebody to help you plan ahead and don't burn your kids out   More on PFL: www.phillyfaceoff.com/ ***** Thanks to all of our listeners out there! If you'd like to connect, please email info@nxtlacrosse.com.   Please help us grow by leaving a positive review and sharing your favorite episode on your social channels!  

The gang returns for a fourth year of the show, fresh off an inspiring event in Atlantic City.    After some name-dropping, Bill, Kate and Kupp share their highlights and key takeaways from the recent “Lacrosse Summit” by 3Step Sports.   Hot Topics at The Lacrosse Summit Coach-Focused Themes: Professional Development Managing Parents Box Lacrosse National Teams Club Director Panels   Player-Focused Themes: Diversity and Equity Mental Health Bravery  Mindfulness and Mind Chatter Burnout and Over-Training    Parent-Focused Themes: Managing Expectations and Behaviors Regular Communication with Parents 24-Hour Rules and Office Hours Pressing the Pause   Homework For Coaches:  “Not every coach wins a championship, but every coach can prove a championship environment” - Janine Tucker For Players:  Watch your own film and evaluate yourself, especially your weaknesses For Parents: Let your kids run their own race   Thanks to all of our listeners out there! If you'd like to connect, please email info@nxtlacrosse.com.   Please help us grow by leaving a positive review and sharing your favorite episode on your social channels!

Tony Resch brings one of the most impressive lacrosse resumes ever to his first podcast appearance. Currently a High School Guidance Counselor and Coach at La Salle College High School as well as an Assistant Coach with the PLL Archers and the GM of the USA U-19 Team, Tony shares his journey. Topics discussed include multi-sport athletes, humble beginnings with the sport of lacrosse, a two-sport career at Yale, his playing and coaching career with his hometown Philadelphia Wings, and more on his time with the NLL, MLL, PLL and Team USA. Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode! Youth Sports Hot Topics 2:35: Introduction: Coach Resch's Resume 6:00: For parents: Encouraging your child to play multiple sports. Why doing so matter. 11:18: For coaches: The value of box lacrosse. 17:06: For players: The New Zealand All-Blacks – Point 3. Questions & Answers 22:45: How it all started at Penn Charter. 80's lacrosse. 26:47: The “door opens” at Yale University. 28:47: Football and Lacrosse at Yale then off to England. 30:48: Best years on the field: Men's Philly Club Lacrosse. 33:30: Team USA as a player and coach. 36:50: Team USA verse Team Canada rivalry – intense! 40:33: Playing verse Canadians: What makes them different. 43:00: There's got to be something wrong with you. 45:15: Early Philadelphia Wings the Spectrum Rocks. 52:00: Team USA in Israel: Gold Medal. 55:40: Philadelphia Barrage – A Look Back. 58:35: The PLL and the Archers. 1:01:20: The lacrosse ride as a parent. 1:04:25: Rapid Fire NXT Homework

Hosts Bill Leahy, Mary Kupprion, and Kate Henwood return for season four of the More Than A Club Podcast.

Hosts Bill Leahy, Mary Kupprion, and Kate Henwood return for season four of the More Than A Club Podcast.

As we close another fantastic summer of NXT lacrosse, Kate Henwood joins Leahy & Kupp to reflect. The gang looks back at their summer and shares their favorite moments from our show's third season.  (Check out the list of awesome guests below, and listen to any episodes you haven't heard yet!) 10:50 - Bill's take a girls box lax  16:00 - Kate on growing professionally through this show and the fun new challenge it has provided 18:00 - Some highlights from the shows of Season 3, which kicked off in September of 2021 -Mike Murphy, Penn Mens Lacrosse -Chris Goldberg, PhillyLacrosse.com -John Begier, Radnor High School -Bryan Kelly, Calvert Hall & FCA -Grant Ament, PLL Archers, Attack Academy & Haverford School  -Dr. Dane Donohue, Wellness Solution Centers -Peter Toner, Gettysburg College  -Laurie DeLuca, NXT Girls Lacrosse & University of Delaware -Regy Thorpe, University of Florida & USA Indoor Lacrosse -Ryan Terefenko, PLL Chrome, NLL Halifax Thunder & Culver Academy  -Mike Levin, Harlem Lacrosse  -Matt Hogan, Annapolis Hawks, and Hogan Lacrosse 30:00 - A toast to our “classic replays” that we sprinkled in over the past months  34:00 - Reflections from the summer, through our eyes: The good, the bad, and the ugly 40:00 - For Coaches: X & O Insight of the week  -Kate helps us understand what college coaches were talking about this summer -Bill loved the events that used a shot clock this summer  45:25 - For Players: Culture Building -“This group is coming together, and it's special”  46:40 - Rapid Fire NXT Homework For Parents:  Check out women lacrosse, repeat all versions of the game For Coaches:  Check out Youth Inc Podcast with Greg Olsen For Players:  Put your stick down and take a break What Kate is reading: Think Again, by Adam Grant  What Bill is watching: World War II & DB Cooper Documentaries on Netflix  And just like that…Season 3 of the More Than a Club Podcast is over.  We will be back for Season 4 starting in October 2022.  Thanks to all of our listeners out there! If you'd like to connect, please email info@nxtlacrosse.com.   Please help us grow by leaving a positive review and sharing your favorite episode on your social channels.   

Taylor Wray, current Head Coach at Saint Joseph's University joins this episode. We hear what a Division 1 lacrosse program is doing right now while working under strict COVID-19 guidelines. Taylor shares his Canadian background in hockey and lacrosse and his unique path to playing college lacrosse at Duke University, then playing professionally in the National Lacrosse League. Topics discussed include the Canadian National Team, the benefits of box lacrosse, traits that college coaches value in potential recruits and team members, and more.   Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode!   Youth Sports Hot Topics 1:20, General: Return to play at SJU (Covid).  4:14, For parents: Recruiting during Covid. 7:00, For players: Size of College Rosters during Covid. 11:45, For coaches: Canadian Influence and the importance of the 2-man game.  Questions & Answers 15:30, The Influence of Dave Huntley 17:20, The Importance of Box Lacrosse 20:00, Culture Building at Saint Joseph University 25:55, Training Unselfishness 26:40, Engagement as a Core Value 28:25, Coach Wray's Youth and Background 32:30, Being Recruited to Duke University 33:33, Playing more than one position. 35:20, Coaches of Influence & How to Compete 37:10, Canadian National Team Experience 45:40, No More Lax Bro Culture 47:50, Traits of a successful collegiate player 51:00, 2022 Saint Joseph University Season – An Outlook 54:30, Rapid Fire NXT Homework For players: Wallball For parents: Be Present For coaches: Instagram Coach Through Cancelation

Matt Hogan joins the guys on this show as our special guest. Most proud of his 35 year marriage, Matt's one of the sport's most experienced educators and coaches, as well as an innovator. Topics discussed include his coaching mentors, becoming an "Associate Tenured Professor" at the Naval Academy, growing the HoganLax business with lacrosse events and club teams, and being a sports parent.  Youth Sports Hot Topics 17:30 - For Parents:  What you say matters. Let the coaches make the decisions.  26:20 - For Coaches:  A couple of favorite drills.  See more of the HoganLax Drill Library here 33:25 - For Players:  The importance of being a great teammate  1:10:42 - Rapid Fire NXT Homework For Parents: Make sure that this is your child's journey, not yours For Coaches: Listen to yourself, and how you communicate with players  For Players: Don't stop working on your stick. Each day, you're either getting better or worse. What is HoganLax HoganLax provides developmental opportunities for lacrosse players and coaches through hosting and organizing tournaments, club teams, and team training. HoganLax was created in 2002 when Matt Hogan, CEO & Founder, was the head lacrosse coach at the University of Pennsylvania. The first tournament was HERO held at the Haverford School, outside of Philadelphia. When Matt Hogan moved back to the Annapolis area in 2003, HoganLax hosted 8 teams in the inaugural year for Summer Exposure. Summer Exposure now is host to 250+ teams each year on Father's Day weekend. In the following years, Hogan's Hershey (225 teams), Bay Bridge Brawl (120 teams), Fall Brawl (90-100 teams), Revolution (40 teams), and most recently, Shore Wars and Spring Thaw have been great additions as HoganLax premier events. HoganLax partnered with the Chesapeake Bayhawks to provide a unique experience with the invite-only tournament of Naptown National Challenge. Navy-Marine Corps Stadium plays host to the championship games, which are broadcasted on live television. HoganLax's club lacrosse organization is the Annapolis Hawks, which was initiated in 2004 with 2 teams. Starting with only U13 and U15 teams, the club slowly grew to over 11 teams ranging from 3rd to 11th graders. The Hawks recently partnered with a club in Richmond, now the Richmond Hawks, to assist with their growth and development as players and coaches. Team Training takes place in Orlando, Florida and allows entire teams to escape to sunny and warm Florida over spring break. HoganLax provides all logistics once you land in Orlando. The fantastic host Hilton provides meals and lodging, with the fields being only a short distance away. HoganLax will support scrimmages, games, practices, trainers and all other needs are provided. HoganLax staff will happily assist you in coaching your teams with the Coaches' Coach feature, if that is an aspect of the trip you think may help your team develop and grow to its potential.     Who is HoganLax Matt Hogan, CEO and Founder of HoganLax, joined the lacrosse community as an 8th grader in 1974 and has never looked back. Through playing for Hall High School in West Hartford, CT, at the collegiate level for Springfield College, and coaching at the Division I, III, high school, and youth levels, he has been exposed to and enjoyed lacrosse in a variety of atmospheres. 1983- Assistant University of Maryland NCAA Semi-Finalists 1984-85 Assistant University of Delaware NCAA Tournament Masters in Education 1986- Assistant University of Maryland NCAA Tournament 1987-88- Head Coach Clarkson University ECAC Upstate Champions ECAC Coach of the Year 1989-2001- Assistant Coach United States Naval Academy Associate Professor of Phys. Ed. Department 2000 NCAA #1 Ranked Defense 2002- Head Coach UPENN First winning season in 13 years 2003-2010- Head Coach and Dean of Students, St. Mary's- Annapolis High School MIAA and MSLCA Coach of the Year

Thanks to our special guest, Mike Levin of Harlem Lacrosse. Mike Levin has an awesome lacrosse resume, from learning the game in Upstate New York to playing at Brown University. Mike Continued his career playing professionally in the MLL. In our conversation, Mike shares his passion for teaching, specifically in urban education. His connections to lacrosse led him to change lives through both lacrosse and academics.  Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode. 19:40 - What is Harlem Lacrosse, and who do you serve? -Deep intervention and academic monitoring, a smaller number of kids with a higher number of hours -Lacrosse is central to the experience, but the most important outcomes have nothing to do with lacrosse -40 Program Directors, 1300 kids in middle school and high schools -College placement and support Alumni services post-college and carreer success 23:30, Challenges of resources - investment required to fill equity gaps and operate within school systems 26:00, Race and diversity within the lacrosse community  27:00, Developing cultural competency and discussing systemic racism and inequalities  30:30 Supporting the community through intense times through the pandemic and George Floyd protests  33:00 Training, developing, empowering anti-racist educators 35:30. Impact Report on Academic Improvement and more 40:40 Personal pathing towards academic success  42:00 Champions of Harlem Lacrosse Youth Sports Hot Topics 43:25, For Coaches -Culture trumps curriculum  -Scaffolding -Principles and variables 50:30, For Players  -Be a great teammate -Growth Mindset -Sport Outcomes 57:00, For Parents  -Where Harlem Lacrosse is headed and how to support Rapid Fire NXT Homework (1:00:00) For Parents: Let your kids find their joy within the sport For Coaches: Think about what you want the sport to be, and think about your broader responsibilities to the sport.  For Players: Spend time thinking about what it means to be a great teammate. What will your teammates say about the type of teammate you were? For more on Harlem Lacrosse, click here.

Thanks to our special guest, NXT 2016 Alum Ryan “Freako” Terefenko! Ryan joins us for an outstanding interview during his first spring season as a high school coach at Culver Military Academy, where he also works in the athletic department.  Ryan played for the NXT Lacrosse Club (NXT 2016) through middle school and high school, eventually heading to Ohio State University to play under Nick Myers. Following a legendary Buckeye career as a multiple-time Captain and All-American, he continues to play in both the indoor (National Lacrosse League) and outdoor (Premier Lacrosse League)  professional leagues.  Our former player is one of the sports's most talented young players and coaches! Topics discussed include recruiting process reflections, love for the NXT Family, leadership lessons learned at Ohio State, and finding a sense of belonging in the pro ranks.  Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode! Youth Sports Hot Topics 5:45, For Parents: Know who you're getting involved with when looking for coaching for your child 22:15, For Coaches: “The Dreadful Split-Crease” - Working with defenders away from the ball when being attacked from below the goal-line  31:00, For Players: “Nothing of great importance can be achieved alone” and other lessons like “Truth and Love” learned through the program cultures at both NXT and Ohio State Questions & Answers 21:00, Following his brother's lead to pick up the stick, and the family's love of lacrosse growing from there 24:20, Recapping the highlights of his high school lacrosse journey with his Wilson West Lawn High School team  26:40, Reflections of a “late recruit” turned High School and D1 All-American, sacrifices made and humbly working while waiting 28:30, The transition to being a student-athlete at Ohio State, playing as a Freshman, and battling injuries  35:00, Going Pro and gaining a sense of belonging in the Premier Lacrosse League as a Defensive Midfielder with the PLL Chrome 38:00, A geography lesson and more on the pro indoor lacrosse experience this season with the NLL Halifax Thunderbirds 40:25, A passion for coaching from a product of good coaching

Tucker Durkin, current Assistant Men's Lacrosse Coach at Drexel, PLL All-Star and Team USA Defenseman joins this episode as a featured guest. A former player of Coach Leahy's during his time at La Salle College High School, Durkin shares his story and mindset now as both a pro player and college coach. Topics discussed include the recruiting process, Tucker's favorite teammates, Johns Hopkins, Team USA's World Games victory, and playing in the newly founded Premier Lacrosse League (PLL).  Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode! Youth Sports Hot Topics 1:50 For parents: November Recruiting 7:04 Tucker Durkin's Recruiting Journey 7:27 For coaches: Take Pride in Riding 17:03 For players: How to be a good teammate. The All Blacks – “Leave the Jersey in a Better Place” 19:38 Why Culture Matters – LaSalle High School, Johns Hopkins, and Team USA Questions & Answers 24:00, Beating Team Canada for the gold medal. 25:014, Playing smart, talented, and crafty Canadian attackman. 29:18 Team, Family, and the USA Kibbutz 30:15, Grateful for defensive mentors; Coach Resch and Coach Petro 33:30, Recalling special teammates along the journey. 36:07, Staying motivated in and age of competition. 38:08, La Salle verse La Salle: Rambo verse Durkin in the Pros. 40:00, The adventures of the Premier Lacrosse League. 41:20, Advice for today's young defensemen. 43:20, Rapid Fire NXT Homework 43:28, For players: If you want uncommon results 43:40, For parents: Support and Celebrate your kids' passions 43:50, For coaches: You can't do it alone. 44:00, Motivation Myth, by John Hayden

Regy Thorpe (current Assistant Womens Lacrosse Coach at University of Florida and Chief Lacross Officer for 3D Lacrosse) joins the show as our special guest. With an unrivaled resume as a player, coach, and mentor, Regy takes us through his lacrosse journey from growing up in New York to a career in playing and coaching lacrosse.  Topics discussed include relationship-building, the benefits of box lacrosse for boys and girls, advice for sports parents, and the highlights of coaching with Gary Gait at Syracuse and Amanda O'Leary at Florida.  Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode! Youth Sports Hot Topics 7:30, For parents: Be patient, be positive, be supportive and know "it's going to work out" 14:30, For coaches: The benefits of Box Lacrosse for girls and women 24:30, For players: "Family Culture" creates a home away from home 32:10, Questions & Answers 33:00, Living the dream of playing for Syracuse in the Carrier Dome 35:42, College lacrosse rivalries and standout teammates, winning the NCAA National Championship with Syracuse 38:06, Playing Pro Lacrosse and staying connected in multiple roles 44:15, Shoutouts for Tony Resch and Brett Manney, special friends and former guests of the show 47:10, Canadian Box Lacrosse and closing the gap with the Americans 52:40, Coaching Womens Lacrosse  1:06:00, Rapid Fire NXT Homework For parents: Support ALL of the kids, not just your own For coaches: Attend as many "learning events" as you can, listen to podcasts, stay open-minded so you're ready to learn For players: Keep your head down, keep working 

Kate Henwood (once again) brings us into the world of women's lacrosse and we learn more about her successful high school and college coaching stops, as well as the growth of the NXT Girls Lacrosse Club.  Topics discussed include the gender pay gap in youth sports, new rules in the women's game, State Championships, building a club program identity, thanking the competition, and more.   Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode! Youth Sports Hot Topics 4:50, For parents: Gender Gap in Youth Sports 6:60, For coaches: Rule Changes in the Women's Game 10:40, For players: The Hard Hat: How to be a Great Teammate Questions & Answers 19:00, Coaching D 1 @ UC-Davis: From Philly to Cali & Back 21:50, NXT Sports: Arriving Home & Building a Women's Lacrosse Club 24:40, High School Lacrosse and Club Lacrosse, Tension or Not? 28:50, Managing the Clock, The 3rd Opponent called “Pressure” 31:40, Too Many Voices in their Head. 35:25, Next Gen of NXT Girls Club Lacrosse 36:40, Recruiting Advice from Coach Henwood 40:12, Looking Forward in Youth Sports: Thoughts, Concerns, and Mental Health Rapid Fire NXT Homework 42:10, For players: Get to Know Your Stick 43:04, For parents: Read about this generation of youth 44:17, For coaches: Send a text +/-

Thanks to our special guest, Laurie Tortorelli DeLuca!  Laurie currently works for NXT Lacrosse and is the Head Coach of the nationally-ranked NXT LC Girls 2025 Black team. A proud native of “Delco” PA, Laurie was a standout Goalie at The University of Delaware. Post-graduation, "Tort" stayed in the game through multiple college coaching stops and roles. In our conversation, Laurie shares her lacrosse journey, her best coaching insights, and stories of a sports parent. Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode. Youth Sports Hot Topics (6:10) For Parents: Please stop coaching from the sideline!  For Coaches: Coaching isn't about you, it's about serving others 3 C's: Compassion, Care & Competence  For Players: Think about your “daily habits” and how they reflect your goals and dreams Well Done > Well Said Questions & Answers  21:00 The influence of the basketball coach to get into lacrosse 22:45, Playing the goalie position with an athletic, aggressive style 23:50, Recruiting path to The University of Delaware, and the college student-athlete experience as a Blue Hen 27:40: Using discipline and time-management to crush the classroom as well as the athletic field  28:20, From playing to coaching college lacrosse, starting at Cornell and then as Director of Ops at Duke 33:30, Working full-time, coaching younger players, and directing camps and club teams for NXT Girls Lacrosse 36:55, The value of girls box lacrosse and working with Coach Leahy 38:40, The importance of playing multiple sports, and how basketball was transferrable to lacrosse  44:20, Tips for other coaches you work with, and helping coaches grow Rapid Fire NXT Homework (48:30) For Parents: Allow your kids to fail and make mistakes For Coaches: Create a culture where the players care for each other away from the field For Players: Do the next right thing  

Thanks to our special guest, Peter Toner!  Coach Toner is currently the Head Men's Lacrosse Coach at Gettysburg College. A native of Kennebunk, Maine, and a friend of Coach Leahy's from their work with Team USA Lacrosse, he's known as a top collegiate coach and mentor to many. Peter shares his lacrosse journey and a ton of great coaching points with us in this conversation.  Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode.  Youth Sports Hot Topics (6:20) For Parents: It can be easy to get wrapped up in some of the hype these days, but with any sport that your children engage with, let them love it For Coaches: The importance of 1v1s - Who can “win the point of attack” to be successful on defense or offense?  For Players: Being a great teammate, the standards and accountability within a strong program 26:45 “What's in it FROM me?” > “What's in it FOR me” Questions & Answers (34:10) 36:50, Springfield College and the “Springfield Mafia” network in the coaching profession 38:00, Special bonds with Pat and Nick Myers, now head coaches of Lafayette and Ohio State 41:00, Not yet being ready to be a head coach 42:20, The opportunity to coach with Mike Pressler at Bryant University  43:15, Learning about how to be more open-minded over time and seeking and accepting constructive feedback 46:00, Time spent coaching and growing up at Penn State, working with Jeff Tambroni to lead the program to historical success in the NCAA Playoffs 52:25, Coaching as Defensive Coordinator with Team USA U-19 team 58:20, Getting comfortable in a new role as a Division 3 Head Coach at Gettysburg, amidst the challenges of COVID-19 Rapid Fire NXT Homework (1:01:00) For players: Find creative ways to get better  For parents: Encourage multiple sports  For coaches: Continue to focus on developing the fundamentals of the game

Thanks to our special guest, Dr. Dane! Dr. Dane Donohue is a 3rd generation Chiropractor in Newtown, PA, who has been serving the people of Bucks County for almost 30 years. He is a well-recognized speaker and author within the Chiropractic profession and is responsible for developing 8 Weeks to Wellness and The Wellness Score which has helped thousands of patients around the world.    Here are some notes to help you enjoy this episode. Youth Sports Hot Topics (13:30) For Parents: The Triune of Health: Physical, Mental/Emotional, and Chemical Recovery For Coaches: “Authentic Happiness” through using your talents to serve others For Players: Recovery, Adaptation, and Foundation Building A Reminder of “The 4 Agreements” Be impeccable with your word  Don't take things personal Don't make assumptions Always do your best Questions & Answers “We're all occupational athletes” 51:20, Finding authentic happiness through chiropractic work 52:30, DYK? The word Doctor comes from teaching and education  54:00, Learning the skills to be a better husband and managing the most valuable relationships 57:00, The frustrations of dealing with apathetic people 1:03:40, “Posture follows movement like a shadow” 1:06:00, Snoopy's Five Cents -On not watching the news -On COVID-19 -On competing in a healthy way -On overuse injuries -On taking breaks Rapid Fire NXT Homework (1:11:25) For Players:  Understand the difference between a goal and a standard.  For Parents: Help your child by supporting positive habits and standards of a healthy environment For Coaches: Be authentic, be you, be passionate To learn more about Dr. Dane and his Wellness Solution Centers: wscenters.com/

Thanks to our special guest, Grant Ament. A 2015 graduate of The Haverford School, Grant starred at Penn State University, re-writing the record books and leading their lacrosse program to great success. Recently named the Premier Lacrosse League's top player at his position, Ament plays professionally for the PLL Archers. In this episode, he shares more about his devotion to coaching through Attack Academy, Scorers League, and as the newest member of the staff at his alma mater, Haverford School.    Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode.   Youth Sports Hot Topics   For Parents: Don't force anything sports-related  For Coaches: Teach basic lacrosse fundamentals the right way For Players: Creativity is a gift  Questions & Answers 19:30, Team Culture through the different levels of play at Haverford School, Penn State, and now professionally with the PLL Archers 34:30, Dealing with setbacks, injuries, and not always making the team 37:00, Grant's final year at PSU, COVID, and then getting drafted #1 to play professional lacrosse 39:30, Joining the ranks of players he had looked up to like Paul Rabil, Rob Pannell, Tom Schreiber, Kyle Harrison & more  43:15, Working off the field on mindset, mental health, and taking care of the body to prolong a playing career 45:00, The importance of taking a break from sport to avoid burnout and to be well-rounded 48:40, Passing on knowledge to the next generation of players through Attack Academy 51:50, An overview of the Scorers League, a collaboration with NXT to train Philly's next best offensive players 55:00, Going on the journey with a committed group as a high school coach 56: 30, Fulfilling dreams and suiting up for Team USA Rapid Fire NXT Homework For Parents: Let your child lead the conversation For Coaches: Get to know your players For Players: Dream big

Thanks to our special guest, Bill's lifelong friend Bryan Kelly. Coach Kelly has been leading the lacrosse program at Calvert Hall since 1996, competing in the MIAA, which is widely recognized as the nation's top conference for high school lacrosse. Bryan also leads the FCA Maryland club program.  NXT Founder Peter Lawrence steps in as Co-Host for this show. Here are some notes to help you enjoy this new episode! Youth Sports Hot Topics 6:40, For parents  Trust the process and let your children make their own story 22:15, For coaches Managing a subpar team or a down season by finding the small wins, celebrating effort and keeping it fun “We don't talk about winning games, we talk about getting better”  31:00, For players Play with joy, freedom & love, instead of playing with fear that comes along with an outcome-driven mindset Questions & Answers 41:00, Creating a healthy culture within the club lacrosse world, the FCA way 44:00, Talking respect for the Philly lacrosse scene, with shoutouts to Conestoga, Haverford, La Salle, Malvern & Radnor 47:40, Lessons learned coaching the MIAA conference against the nation's top high school programs 53:00, The importance of the mental game to this sport, and working to remain process-driven rather than outcome-driven 57:30, The imprint of the late Coach Dave Huntley on the Calvert Hall program 59:30, Bryan's constant desire for self-improvement as a coach, educator, manager and mentor  1:04, Offensive philosophies in lacrosse - Playing through read and react more than scripted plays 1:06, Love for some influential coaches, Bob Prater of Cockeysville Rec & Mike Thomas of Calvert Hall Rapid Fire NXT Homework For players: Be a great teammate, do that by always putting the team before yourself For parents: Don't talk about the game after the game For coaches: Get to know your players and appreciate their individual personalities

Thanks to our special guest, John Begier, Head Coach at Radnor High School (PA). Here are some highlights from this episode. We hope that you enjoy the show! Youth Sports Hot Topics 6:00, For players:  Re-defining the “Long-Stick Middie” position, with the influence of Fred Opie from Syracuse  10:00, For parents: Involving parents and helping manage parent expectations as a high school coach 20:05, For coaches: Managing free-spirited players vs. system players on your team Questions & Answers 26:10, Radnor's 2021 State Championship Run  31:50, The importance of an “everybody is a 1” mentality and every player having an important role 36:00, The influence of coaches like Mike Mayock Sr. (while at Haverford School) and Jeff Long (while at UVA) 38:40, Props for the assistant coaches and the parent support at Radnor High School 44:00, A life-changing phone call from Peter Samson, an icon of the Philly Lacrosse scene 46:00, Coaches should focus on their growth  51:40, How High School coaches can collaborate with club coaches to fully support their players 54:58, Supporting multi-sport athletes and encouraging lacrosse players to have different sports experiences Rapid Fire NXT Homework For players: Consciously strive to be a great, inclusive teammate For parents: Enjoy and have fun with the ride with your kids, it goes fast For coaches: Make your practice the best two of the day for your players  “You don't have to be serious about being serious.” - Gerry Byrne, Harvard Head Coach

Thanks to our special guest Chris Goldberg of PhillyLacrosse.com & TopLaxRecruits.com.   Here are some highlights from this episode. We hope that you enjoy the show!     Youth Sports Hot Topics   12:30, For sports parents:   Some advice for keeping perspective on college commitments, and using social media tactfully    15:45, For coaches:   Promote the positive work your program does on and off the field    17:48, For players:   Get involved in community service through the lacrosse-related causes Questions & Answers   22:50, Why teach? Some reflections on 20+ years as an educator   29:00, The birth of PhillyLacrosse.com    33:10, The most memorable games in the recent history of Philly Lacrosse   35:00, Favorite local players, including Matt Rambo and Grant Ament   39:00, The rise of club lacrosse   46:14, Advice for the next generation of journalists Rapid Fire NXT Homework For players: Encourage your teammates to get involved in community service  For parents: Allow your children to enjoy the game and stress academics as the priority  For coaches: Report your scores, help your student-athletes use lacrosse as an avenue to higher education

PODCAST DESCRIPTION: Here are some highlights from this episode. We hope that you enjoy the show.    Youth Sports Hot Topics 3:10, For sports parents:  Some advice for keeping perspective on the journey, and how parents can be better teammates 11:50, For coaches:  The importance of the Long-Stick-Midfielder position 18:00, For players:  Keeping a positive mindset through COVID-19, and some of the pillars of team culture under Coach Murphy at Penn   Questions & Answers, 26:00 47:45, Fatherly advice to his sons about persistence  49:30, Coaching at The University of Pennsylvania, a living part of sports history 52:00, Philadelphia high school lacrosse history, the parent experience with Radnor's 2021 State Championship team  58:20, Leading the IMCLA    Rapid Fire NXT Homework For players: Get better every day For parents: Be supportive For Coaches: Stretch yourself

Hosts Bill Leahy and Marty Kupprion return for season three of More Than a Club!

Coach Law returns to help us put a bow on our second season of the pod. A Co-Founder and President of NXT Sports, Peter leads the NXT LC High School Club Teams & NXT’s Training in the Greater Philadelphia area. He’s also the boss who gave us the green light to push forward and create this podcast. With his help, we rewind through the episodes and highlight the incredible guests that we’ve talked to since our “Return to Play”.   Topics discussed include coaching high school lacrosse, observations as a college lacrosse fan, advice around the hype of different showcases, and some takes on sports parenting.

Back by popular demand, Philadelphia-based Sports Psychologist Mitch Greene joins the show for a second time. Dr. Greene gives us an update on the issues that both young and high-level athletes are facing as we navigate COVID-19. Topics discussed include how athletes can better focus on what they control and being honest with themselves, advice for parents to support their student-athletes who may be struggling, uncertainty, mind chatter and the power of the pivot.   This past winter, GreenePsych worked with the NXT Lacrosse Club to present a four-part “Winter Wellness” series. Please check it out here, and share this episode with any athletes, parents or coaches. Link: https://nxtsports.com/what-we-do/news/winter-wellness-series-presented-y-greenepsych  

Chris "Hup" Hupfeldt joins the show to discuss one of our favorite topics - Philly Lacrosse! We look back to the 80s, 90s and 2000's and discuss the players, coaches, and high school programs that stand out. Chris also talks through the days of men's club lacrosse into the beginning of the professional leagues and shares stories from his role as General Manager of Team USA. Topics discussed include SEPYLA, handling adversity, being a sports parent and Hup's take on Haverford School's 2011 and 2015 teams.

One of the best people in lacrosse, "Silly" joins the show to reflect on his journey with lacrosse, from catching on to the game late, to multiple college stops and an incredible professional career as a player, coach, and administrator that lives on today. Brian shares some excellent stories from his college days at Nazareth chasing Hobart, "old man lacrosse" before the pros, and more from his professional playing and coaching at all levels. Topics discussed include midfielders, what Division 3 offers, leading Team Jamaica and Team  Scotland, his new role with the Premier Lacrosse League, and the need for lacrosse players and coaches to stand up as anti-racists.

Steve Colfer, current Head Coach at Cabrini University joins the guys for a spirited conversation. Steve shares his lacrosse background, as well as more on his roles working in college admissions, recruiting, and retention. Coach brings us into his practice and shares his favorite ways to teach and practice the clearing game. Topics discussed include being genuine and authentic, building up Cabrini into a National Champion, international lacrosse with Team Bermuda, and more. 

Drexel Head Coach Brian Voelker joins the guys for a fun conversation. "Voelks" shares his lacrosse journey from learning the game in Baltimore to becoming one of the best defensive players of all time, starring at Johns Hopkins in some of the NCAA's all-time great games. Brian tells stories from his Hall of Fame and winning days, playing for Team USA and professionally in both the indoor (National Lacrosse League) and outdoor (Major Lacrosse League). Topics discussed include being a competitor, coaching stops at Princeton and Penn, his decade leading at Drexel, and as always, some tips for parents, players, and coaches. In the show, we reference what some call "The Greatest Lacrosse Game Ever Played" where Brian and the Blue Jays matched up against the Gait Brothers and Syracuse.1989 NCAA Championship, Hopkins vs. Syracusehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1y2RPoi40E

Brian Dougherty, one of the greatest lacrosse players ever, joins this episode and does not disappoint. One of the sport's most decorated and accomplished goaltenders as well as one of the sport's biggest personalities, "Doc" has some great stories and insights. He talks through teaching himself the position, running with it through his playing career at Episcopal Academy, University of Maryland, The MLL (Major Lacrosse League), and finishing in style with Team USA. Other topics discussed include being the son of a legendary coach, being a natural communicator, coaching stops at every level, teaching goalie play through NetNation, and much more.  Learn more about NetNation here: https://netnationlacrosse.com/

Ryan Manion has dedicated her life to supporting our nation’s military, veterans, and families of fallen heroes. She is inspired by the character, leadership, and sacrifice of her brother 1st Lt. Travis Manion, USMC, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Al Anbar province of Iraq while drawing fire away from his wounded comrades on April 29th, 2007. Coach Leahy, who coached Travis at La Salle College High School, shares some stories of their time together in the classroom and on the playing fields. Topics discussed include Ryan's passionate work through the Travis Manion Foundation, "If not me, then who", finding your purpose, and much more. Please check out Ryan's podcast, The Resilient Life here 

Lafayette College Head Coach Pat Myers joins the guys for a spirited show. Pat shares his background from growing up in Maine, to playing collegiately at Ohio State and a career in college coaching. Topics discussed include keeping the basics fun in sports, being a sports parent, vulnerability in leadership, finding your “why”, and more. 

PLL Champion and superstar Matt Rambo joins this show to hang with two of his old coaches. Matt played for Coach Leahy at La Salle College High School and worked with Coach Kupp with The Dukes Lacrosse Club. The guys share stories around Matt’s early career and learn more about his current life playing professionally for the PLL Whipsnakes & Philadelphia Wings in the NLL. Topics discussed include a focus on fundamental skills, Matt’s historic career at University of Maryland, celebrating the differences of teammates, coaching high school athletes, and more. 

Taylor Wray, current Head Coach at Saint Joseph's University joins this episode. We hear what a Division 1 lacrosse program is doing right now while working under strict COVID-19 guidelines. Taylor shares his Canadian background in hockey and lacrosse and his unique path to playing college lacrosse at Duke University, then playing professionally in the National Lacrosse League. Topics discussed include the Canadian National Team, the benefits of box lacrosse, traits that college coaches value in potential recruits and team members, and more.

The guys are back for second season, now recording from NXT’s new headquarters in Conshohocken, PA. In their first full episode since March, Marty and Bill discuss our full-time lacrosse organization’s return-to-play during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Ian McGinnis joins as a featured guest to update and inform us about all things safety and mental health.

Hosts Bill Leahy and Marty Kupprion return for season two of More than a Club!

In this two part episode, Marty and Bill wrap up their first season of the podcast. To lead things off , a phone conversation recorded on April 2, where the guys catch up about their new normal while COVID-19 derails our beloved spring lacrosse season and much more. The rest of the Episode 12 was recorded back in February, with reflections on the first season and highlights from each of the episodes.

John Peruso, President of Next Level Video joins the podcast as our expert guest. John shares the ways that players, coaches and parents can use video content. A former high school coach as well as an entrepreneur, John and the guys chat about how film is used by coaches and their teams. Other topics discussed include making highlighting films, how college coaches use film in the recruiting process and other resources for lacrosse players to take advantage of video content.

John McEvoy, current Head Coach and Assistant Director of Admissions at Malvern Prep, joins this episode. An old friend of Bill Leahy's from his playing days as a Captain and All-Pro with the Philadelphia Wings, John shares stories from his playing career and takes us through his various stops as a young coach before his long career at his alma mater, Malvern Prep. Topics discussed include Coach Mac's "mortal sins", helping kids deal with adversity, building a nationally-ranked program, and reminding lacrosse coaches that this is a game and it should be fun.

In this episode, Marty and Bill spend time with a leading licensed clinical and sport psychologist, Dr. Mitchell Greene. Dr. Greene works primarily with athletes pursuing high performance goals, or coaches and athletic departments looking to educate their student-athletes on mental health and performance enhancement strategies. Topics discussed include mindfulness in sports, working with athletes of all ages through sport psych, tips for coaches and parents, and the unique mindset that sports requires. Learn more about Dr. Mitchell Greene at https://www.greenepsych.com/

In this episode, Marty and Bill are joined by two young leaders in the world of youth sports safety, Ian McGinnis and Ellis Mair. Ian currently serves as the Director of Health and Participant Safety at NXTsports. Ellis co-founded Go4Ellis, the largest open marketplace for finding Athletic Trainers and finding per diem work. Topics discussed include their background in athletics, concussions, being or working with an injured athlete, taking care of your teammates, and significant advice for parents, coaches and program administrators.Ian’s podcast recommendation: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-adolescent-boys-need-for-friendship-affects-their/id1027430378?i=1000456002711Ellis’ website recommendation: https://www.atyourownrisk.org/

Chris Bates, current Head Coach at the Episcopal Academy and former Philadelphia Wings All-Pro joins this episode. Coach Bates takes us through his lacrosse career from playing at Dartmouth to coaching at both Drexel and Princeton. Topics discussed include teaching accountability to young people, playing box lacrosse, Shootout For Soldiers and more on his time coaching at the high school, college and professional levels.

Brett Manney, current New England Black Wolves (NLL) and Team USA Indoor Defenseman joins this episode as a featured guest. An original leader of NXT Lacrosse, Brett shares his lacrosse journey through his multi-sport background to playing at the University of Delaware to going full-time in the lacrosse world. Topics discussed include club lacrosse, professional lacrosse in the MLL and NLL, box lacrosse, leadership and networking with other coaches.