Freshman to Starter: Nate Randall on Winning the Job at Robert Morris

In this episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon sits down with Robert Morris University goalie Nate Randall, who earned the starting role as a true freshman in Division I lacrosse.

Nate shares his journey from growing up in Michigan without a dedicated goalie coach to becoming a conference champion and NCAA Tournament goalie. He discusses the importance of competing every day, developing confidence, managing pressure during recruiting, and why the mental side of the position is just as important as physical technique.

The conversation also dives into his unique goalie style, lessons learned from baseball, the value of faith in resetting after goals, and what it takes to stay ready when your opportunity finally comes.

Whether you're a youth goalie dreaming of college lacrosse or a current player looking to improve your mindset, this episode is packed with practical advice.

In This Episode You'll Learn

• How Nate earned the starting job as a freshman at Robert Morris

• Why competition in practice helped accelerate his development

• Lessons baseball taught him that translated directly to lacrosse

• His unique approach to stance, hand position, and arc play

• The biggest mistakes goalies make during recruiting showcases

• Why body language matters more than save percentage when coaches are watching

• How to bounce back from slumps and bad goals

• The mental routines Nate uses to reset after every shot

• How his Christian faith helps him stay calm under pressure

• Advice for goalies hoping to play college lacrosse

Key Takeaways

Stay Ready for Your Opportunity

Nate wasn't named the starter before the season, but he stayed prepared every day. When his number was finally called, he was ready because he never stopped competing.

Your Mental Game Matters Most

Confidence, body language, and the ability to move on after goals are skills every goalie must develop. Nate explains why breaking games into small chunks helped him stay focused.

Coaches Watch More Than Saves

College coaches evaluate communication, leadership, clearing ability, and resilience—not just save percentage. How you respond after allowing a goal often says more than the goal itself.

Find What Works for You

Rather than forcing textbook technique, Nate learned to trust the movements and stance that felt most natural, resulting in a style that fits his athleticism.

Extra Reps Make the Difference

Without a goalie coach growing up, Nate relied on repetition, watching elite goalies, and constantly seeking opportunities to improve. His message is simple: put in the work.

Favorite Quote

"The mental game is probably 95% of being a goalie. Just keep working, trust the work you've put in, and stay ready because you never know when your opportunity is coming."

Resources Mentioned

• Robert Morris University Men's Lacrosse

• Lax Goalie Rat Podcast

• Lax Goalie Summit

• Coach Chris Salene

• John Galloway

• Kyle Bernlohr

Connect

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