In this episode, Coach Damon Wilson sits down with professional goalie Ronnie Fernando to discuss one of the most unconventional journeys to professional lacrosse.

Growing up in Southern California before lacrosse became widespread, Ronnie wasn't a highly recruited prospect, didn't play NCAA Division I, took multiple years away from the sport, gained significant weight, and even played college football before finding his way back to the crease. Through persistence, self-belief, and an unwavering love for the game, he eventually earned opportunities that led him to professional lacrosse.

Ronnie shares lessons on overcoming setbacks, returning after long layoffs, developing as a self-taught goalie, and why having fun may be just as important as working hard.

In This Episode

• How Ronnie discovered lacrosse in Southern California

• The story of becoming a goalie (even though he didn't want to)

• Playing California all-star lacrosse and experiencing East Coast competition

• Why he wasn't recruited out of high school

• His winding college path through multiple programs

• What happened when his first college team folded

• Taking several years away from lacrosse—and finding his way back

• Losing weight and using football to rebuild athleticism

• Why persistence created opportunities when he least expected them

• Training alongside pro goalie Brian Phipps

• The mental side of returning after long breaks

• Developing a unique playing style without a dedicated goalie coach

• The value of learning from multiple goalies instead of copying just one

• Advice for young goalies navigating recruiting

• Why setting goals—and enjoying the journey—are equally important

Key Takeaways

• Your path doesn't have to look like everyone else's.

• Persistence often matters more than a perfect résumé.

• Taking time away from the game doesn't mean your career is over.

• Goalies should study many different styles and build one that fits their own strengths.

• Focus on controllable daily habits instead of obsessing over recruiting.

• Have a long-term goal, but break it into small, actionable steps.

• Never lose the enjoyment that made you fall in love with the game in the first place.

Memorable Quotes

"Playing goalie is like riding a bike."

"Have fun. Enjoy it. This game is supposed to be fun."

"Take something from a lot of different goalies and make it your own."

"If you're serious about your goals, don't let distractions take you off your path."

Featured Guest

Ronnie Fernando is a professional lacrosse goalie whose unconventional journey—from Southern California youth lacrosse to multiple college stops, time away from the sport, and eventually the professional ranks—demonstrates the power of resilience, persistence, and continual self-improvement.

Connect

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