In this episode, I’m joined by Riley Horoshko, Temple University’s starting goalie, recent graduate, and American Conference Goalie of the Year. Riley shares her lacrosse goalie journey, from stepping into the cage in fourth grade because it meant “less running,” to becoming a standout college goalie after spending much of her college career as a backup.
We talk about the lessons Riley learned from playing multiple sports, why she did not start club lacrosse until late in high school, and how she navigated the recruiting process by focusing on schools she would love even without lacrosse. Riley also opens up about the mental side of being a goalie, including comparison, pressure, staying relaxed, and how not playing for several seasons helped her rediscover her love for the game.
This conversation is packed with practical advice for goalies, especially taller goalies, backups waiting for their chance, and athletes who are trying to enjoy the game while still competing at a high level.
In this episode, we talk about:
- How Riley first became a goalie in fourth grade
- Why volleyball helped her develop as a lacrosse goalie
- Starting club lacrosse late and still having a successful recruiting process
- Choosing a school you would love even without lacrosse
- What made Temple’s team culture so special
- The coaching concept of “repetition without repetition”
- Why taller goalies should use their size instead of shrinking in the cage
- How Riley improved on low shots
- Goalie drills she used at Temple and now uses while coaching
- What she learned from being a backup for most of her college career
- How not playing helped her rediscover the joy of lacrosse
- Dealing with comparison as a goalie
- Mental game strategies, including staying loose, box breathing, and keeping things fun
- Riley’s approach to 8-meter shots
- Why her final advice to goalies is simple: find a way to make it fun
Key Takeaways
Being a backup can still be a huge part of your growth. Riley spent much of her college career waiting for her chance, but she credits that time with helping her mature, support her teammates, and fall back in love with lacrosse.
Goalies play better when they are relaxed. Riley emphasized that she played her best when she was having fun, talking to defenders, dancing a little, staying present, and not letting every shot feel heavy.
Stop comparing and start redirecting your focus. For young goalies stuck comparing themselves to teammates or opponents, Riley’s advice is to look away, reset, talk to teammates, study the shooters, and put your attention somewhere useful.
Use the tools you have. As a taller goalie, Riley learned to use her height, wingspan, and legs to her advantage, especially when teams tried to target her low.
Keep the game simple when things feel hard. On tough days, Riley would focus on basic cues like tracking the top of the shooter’s stick and making the saves she knew she could make.
Memorable Quote
“Just find a way to make the sport fun and find a way to make yourself relaxed in the goal.”
About Riley Horoshko
Riley Horoshko is a goalie from Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, and a recent graduate of Temple University. After stepping into goal in fourth grade, Riley went on to become Temple’s starting goalie and earn American Conference Goalie of the Year honors. She now coaches young goalies in the Lehigh Valley area.
Final Thoughts
Riley’s story is a great reminder that every goalie’s path looks different. You do not need to be the earliest recruit, the biggest gear person, or the starter from day one to have a great career. Stay ready, support your teammates, keep learning, and most importantly, find ways to enjoy the game.
