LGR 139: Mira Shane: Athletes Unlimited Goalie and Michigan Alum

⭐ Episode Overview

Coach Damon Wilson welcomes Mira Shane — professional goalie with Athletes Unlimited, Michigan’s winningest goalie, social‑justice advocate, beatboxer, and all‑around electric human being. This episode blends lacrosse IQ, identity, mental health, diversity, and even a live beatboxing moment.

“Every time my coach was like, who’s got it? I was like, pick me.” “I loved the energy around the position.”

🧠 Key Topics & Takeaways

Mira’s Origin Story

• Started lacrosse in 5th grade after a camp counselor introduced her to the sport.

• Played defense first — hated the skirts.

• Volunteered for goalie just to avoid the skirt and instantly fell in love.

• Her dad searched the field for her and realized she was in the net — and she never left it.

Energy, Identity & Upbringing

• Raised by two healers:

  • Dad: massage therapist

  • Mom: psychoanalyst specializing in adolescent girls

• Biracial identity (Black father, white mother) shaped her worldview and her college essay.

• Now a biracial queer woman and D&I specialist, she brings representation and advocacy into lacrosse.

Mental Health & Confidence

• Had moments of imposter syndrome at Michigan.

• Learned to stop comparing herself to others and focus on her game.

• Emphasizes that goalies must know:

  • It’s okay to have off days.

  • You’re okay whether you’re starting or on the sideline.

Training & Development

• “Thousand Shot Saturdays” with her dad using an old tennis ball machine.

• Later worked with goalie coach Bob Henderson to refine technique.

• Earned varsity starting spot as a freshman — unexpectedly.

Recruiting Journey

• Advocated for herself: wrote her own emails, emphasized music, identity, and values.

• Prioritized academics, diversity, and authentic coaching relationships.

• Committed late — last recruit in her class — and still found the perfect fit at Michigan.

🥍 Technical Goalie Breakdown

Playing Style

• Split‑save specialist — her “bread and butter.”

• Wide stance, nimble hips, explosive movement.

• Stays centered rather than turning her body when the ball moves behind the cage.

• Uses boxing training to improve knee drops and hip mobility.

Low & High Saves

• Drops inside knee and extends leg for low saves.

• Uses hip explosion for high saves — body curves upward like a spring.

• Practices duck walks and pad‑based split drills for flexibility.

Advice for Young Goalies

• Try multiple coaching styles — pick what fits your body.

• Women’s and men’s goalie techniques differ; adapt intentionally.

• Build a style that feels natural, even if it looks “crazy” to others.

🎵 Music, Beatboxing & Creativity

Mira insists music is part of her identity — she even beatboxes during the episode. She made it clear during recruiting that she must be able to pursue music alongside lacrosse.

🌈 Diversity, Inclusion & Representation

• Speaks openly about being biracial and queer in a predominantly white sport.

• Works professionally in diversity & inclusion.

• Collaborates with Athletes Unlimited and pros like Amber Hill to elevate marginalized voices.

🎧 Sponsor Mention

Lacrosse Goalie Summit 6 — March 28–April 1 Free coaching sessions from 12 elite goalie coaches. Tickets at GoalieSummit.com.

🔚 Episode Closing

Coach Damon highlights Mira’s passion, authenticity, and electric energy — qualities that make her a standout goalie and an even more impactful human being.