LGR 154: Dartmouth Goalie Danny Hincks on Adapting Your Game, Building Confidence & Leading from the Cage

What does it take to thrive as a Division I goalie while constantly adapting your game?

In this episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon Wilson welcomes Danny Hincks, standout goalie for the Dartmouth Big Green. Danny shares his unique lacrosse journey—from growing up outside Boston and learning the position with the Top Gun Fighting Clams to becoming one of the Ivy League's top goalies.

Standing 6'5", Danny explains how being a taller goalie has shaped his technique, why he adjusted his positioning throughout college, and how he learned to use his size as an advantage instead of a limitation. He also discusses the importance of staying mentally steady, making in-game adjustments, and developing the leadership skills every great goalie needs.

Danny also opens up about Dartmouth's recruiting process, the challenges of the COVID seasons, transferring through the portal, and what it takes to compete in one of the toughest conferences in college lacrosse.

Whether you're a young goalie looking to improve your fundamentals or a veteran searching for ways to elevate your mental game, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

In This Episode You'll Learn

• How Danny first became a goalie after giving up elbow pads in youth lacrosse
• Why playing hockey helped develop his athleticism in the crease
• How taller goalies can maximize their size and movement
• Why he changed from an aggressive arc to a more balanced positioning style
• The importance of adapting your technique during games
• Danny's unique Dartmouth recruiting story
• What it takes academically and athletically to compete in the Ivy League
• How to handle competition in the goalie room
• Strategies for bouncing back after giving up goals
• Why confidence comes from preparation and adaptability
• The value of communication and leadership in the crease
• Danny's pregame routine—including his famous bottle flip before every game

Key Takeaways

Danny emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to playing goalie. Every goalie should build a style around their own strengths while remaining willing to adapt throughout their career. Whether it's changing positioning, tweaking your stance, or making adjustments during a game, flexibility is one of the greatest tools a goalie can develop.

He also stresses that great goalies are great leaders. Clear communication, composure after goals, and keeping your defense confident are just as important as making saves.

If you're looking to improve your positioning, mental toughness, leadership, and overall goalie IQ, this conversation with Danny Hincks is one you won't want to miss.

🎧 Listen now to hear how one of the Ivy League's top goalies built his game through adaptability, confidence, and relentless improvement.