First Class Lacrosse Podcast

In this engaging discussion, Jenny Levy, head coach of the University of North Carolina Women's Lacrosse team and National Lacrosse Hall of Famer, shares her inspiring journey from player to coach. She highlights her coaching philosophy, focusing on mentorship and building a competitive culture. Insights on recruiting for cultural fit bring depth to her strategies, while anecdotes from the season add humor. Levy emphasizes the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and resilience, particularly illustrated by a thrilling comeback in a semifinal match against Northwestern.

Gary Gait, often hailed as the greatest lacrosse player, shares his incredible journey as both a player and head coach at Syracuse University. He reminisces about his lacrosse roots in Victoria Island and the pivotal moments in his career. Key discussions include his innovative coaching strategies, the challenges of transitioning between coaching men’s and women’s teams, and the significance of fostering team chemistry. Gait emphasizes the importance of mental preparation and continuous learning, aiming to instill a champion's mindset in his players.

Acacia Walker-Weinstein, head coach for Boston College women's lacrosse and Team USA, shares her journey from playing at Maryland to leading BC to seven national championship games. She emphasizes the power of selflessness in building cohesive teams and the importance of mental rehearsal techniques for athletic success. Acacia discusses her vision for the future of women's lacrosse, the challenges of recruiting through the transfer portal, and how strong mentorship has shaped her coaching philosophy.

John Tillman, head coach of Maryland men's lacrosse and two-time national champion, shares his insights from an illustrious coaching career. He discusses the delicate balance of high standards and support, emphasizing player well-being and development. Tillman highlights the critical role of program culture and open communication in fostering individual growth and accountability. The conversation also delves into skill development, where foundational techniques shape players’ performance while reinforcing the importance of mentorship and inclusivity within a team.

Hannah Nielsen, head coach of the Michigan Women's Lacrosse Program and former player for the Australian national team, shares her journey from four national championships at Northwestern to transforming collegiate lacrosse. She discusses the nuances of recruiting, emphasizing the benefits of multi-sport participation and the importance of informal play. Nielsen highlights the significance of mentorship in sports, building a supportive culture, and fostering mental strength among athletes. Her innovative coaching strategies have reshaped Michigan's team dynamics for success.

Join Deemer Class and Matt Dunn on the First Class Lacrosse Podcast as they delve into the world of college lacrosse with iconic Duke's men's coach, John Danowski. Discover Danowski's unique coaching philosophy that balances athletic skill and personal growth, and learn about his strategic innovations, like using goals boards and focusing on team chemistry. The episode explores adaptions to lacrosse's evolving landscape, including the shot clock's impact. Additionally, it addresses the challenges faced in recruiting with NIL guidelines, emphasizing academic priorities and personal development in the recruitment process. Danowski offers valuable advice for young coaches on leveraging authenticity and core values to make a lasting impact. Timecodes 0:00 - Intro 13:30 - Early Influences 28:30 - Bringing The Right Energy 42:00 - How The Game Has Changed 51:40 - The Mental Game 58:00 - NIL's Impact 1:02:40 - Message To Parents 1:08:00 - Advice For Coaches – At First Class Lacrosse, our mission is to positively impact athletes, coaches, and parents through training, events, mentorship, and digital content. Follow us now on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ and ⁠Spotify⁠ to get every episode in your feed. Check us out on Instagram First Class Lacrosse: @firstclasslacrosse First Class Women’s Lacrosse: @firstclasswlax Best In Class: @fclbestinclass FCL Defense: @fcldefense We're also on ⁠Facebook⁠

Today we're introducing the First Class Lacrosse Podcast. Each week Deemer Class will be joined by co-hosts, Matt Dunn and Stephen Rehfuss to cover all things lacrosse. At First Class Lacrosse, our mission is to positively impact athletes, coaches, and parents through training, events, mentorship, and digital content. Follow us now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify to get every episode in your feed.