In this episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon sits down with Salisbury goalie Kaitlyn Hunsinger to discuss her journey from rec league goalie to becoming the starter for one of Division III's top programs.
Kaitlyn shares how she developed her game without a full-time goalie coach, the lessons she learned from watching elite goalies like Meghan Taylor, and why scouting opponents has become one of the biggest advantages in her preparation. She also opens up about spending three years as a backup before earning the starting role, the confidence journal that helped her overcome self-doubt, and the simple mindset that keeps her focused every game: "See Ball, Stop Ball."
Whether you're fighting for playing time, looking to improve your mental game, or wanting to become a smarter goalie, this episode is packed with practical advice.
In This Episode
- How Kaitlyn accidentally became a goalie because she didn't want to run
- Growing up in Maryland and learning the position through camps and mentors
- What she learned from watching Meghan Taylor's technique
- Adjusting stance and positioning based on opponent tendencies
- How Salisbury scouts opposing shooters before every game
- Reading body language to anticipate shots and feeds
- Why staying technical on low saves is more effective than flopping
- The importance of communication and becoming a leader on defense
- What it's like spending three seasons as a backup before becoming the starter
- Creating highlight videos that college coaches actually want to watch
- Improving clearing accuracy through wall ball and target drills
- Building confidence with a nightly goalie journal
- Handling slumps and bouncing back after tough games
- Why "See Ball, Stop Ball (SBSB)" is the perfect reset for any goalie
Key Takeaways
- Great goalies don't just react—they prepare through film study and scouting.
- Confidence is built by tracking small daily wins and learning from mistakes.
- Leadership starts with earning your teammates' trust through communication.
- Every practice is an opportunity to improve one specific part of your game.
- When things aren't going your way, simplify everything: See Ball. Stop Ball.
Resources Mentioned
- Lax Goalie Rat Academy
- Lax Goalie Summit
- Meghan Taylor
- Salisbury Women's Lacrosse
Connect with Lax Goalie Rat
For more goalie training, drills, mindset tips, and interviews with the best goalies and coaches in the game, visit Lax Goalie Rat and subscribe to the podcast for new episodes.