Connor Theriault: Ivy League Goalie of the Year on Confidence, Competition & Having Fun

Connor Theriault didn't become an elite goalie by overcomplicating the position. The Brown University standout believes the game should stay fun, no matter the stage.

In this episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon sits down with Brown University goalie Connor Theriault, the reigning Ivy League Goalie of the Year and First Team All-Ivy selection. Connor shares his unique journey from switching to goalie in eighth grade to starring for one of the nation's top Division I programs.

The conversation covers everything from developing confidence without years of goalie experience to competing every day, handling pressure, recovering from bad goals, and why having fun is still the key to playing your best.

If you're a goalie looking to improve your mental game, sharpen your recruiting approach, or simply enjoy the position more, this episode is packed with valuable lessons.

In This Episode

• How Connor switched from attack to goalie in eighth grade

• Learning the position without years of formal goalie training

• Why competition accelerated his development

• The importance of seeing live shots over endless drills

• How hockey and soccer improved his goalie instincts

• His approach to arc play and using size effectively

• Why Brown University became his dream school

• Recruiting lessons from the club circuit

• Recovering quickly after allowing goals

• The story behind the nickname "The People's Goalie"

• Connor's pregame routine and warm-up

• Advice for youth goalies dealing with pressure and nerves

Key Takeaways

Keep the Game Fun

Connor believes the game never changes—only the level of competition.

"The game I'm playing now is the same game I played years ago. It's just against different people."

Enjoying the game helps eliminate pressure and allows goalies to perform at their highest level.

Competition Creates Better Goalies

Whether it was battling his twin brother in the backyard or competing during every practice, Connor believes competition builds confidence and prepares goalies for big moments.

See More Live Shots

While technical drills have their place, Connor believes the fastest way to improve is by facing as many game-like shots as possible.

Forget the Last Goal

One of Connor's biggest mental game lessons is simple: once a goal is scored, it's over.

Take a breath, reset, communicate with your defense, and prepare for the next shot.

Use Your Body to Your Advantage

As a bigger goalie, Connor emphasizes understanding angles and trusting your size rather than forcing textbook movements that don't fit your style.

Favorite Quotes

"The game I'm playing now is the same game I played years ago. It's just against different people."

"The more fun you're having, the better you play."

"The last shot—I can't do anything about it. All I can do is focus on the next one."

Connor's Goalie Tips

• Compete in everything you do.

• Face as many live shots as possible.

• Don't dwell on goals you've allowed.

• Stay calm so your defense stays calm.

• Trust your style and play to your strengths.

• Have fun—the best goalies enjoy being in the cage.

Players & Coaches Mentioned

• Jack Kelly

• Danny Hinks

• Josh Kirsten

• Drake Porter

• Larkin Kemp

• Chase Ireland

• Coach Holm

• Rob Cross

Connect with Connor

Instagram: @cterrio2

Enjoy the Show?

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