In this episode of the LAX Goalie Rat Podcast, host Damon Wilson sits down with Brad Gigliotti, founder of Six by Six Goalie Academy, to discuss what it takes to develop elite lacrosse goalies. Brad shares his coaching philosophy, emphasizing individualized instruction, goal setting, leadership, mental resilience, and technical fundamentals. The conversation also covers common mistakes young goalies make, drills that improve performance, and why being a great goalie coach is more about teaching than playing experience.
Key Topics Discussed
Brad Gigliotti's Journey
- Played at Brother Rice High School (Michigan)
- Collegiate goalie at Alfred University
- Former coach at the University of Michigan club program
- Founder of Six by Six Goalie Academy
- Passionate educator who believes great coaching comes from effective teaching rather than elite playing experience
Coaching Philosophy
- Every goalie is unique and should not be forced into a "one-size-fits-all" style.
- Start every training session by identifying the athlete's goals.
- Build a development plan based on strengths, weaknesses, and learning style.
- Focus on consistent improvement rather than perfection.
Quote:
"If you can do something better today than you did yesterday, you've succeeded."
Goal Setting
Brad emphasizes:
- Long-term goals (making varsity, winning championships)
- Short-term achievable goals (improving off-stick saves, increasing save totals)
- Building confidence through small wins
Becoming a Better Teacher
Brad credits his background in education for his coaching success:
- Adapt instruction to each athlete
- Monitor and adjust based on learning style
- Prioritize understanding over repetition alone
- Build lasting habits through consistent practice
Technical Goalie Tips
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect arc positioning
- Standing square to the sideline instead of maintaining a 45-degree angle
- Hands too close to the body
- Poor rebound control
- Improper goalie stick pocket
Favorite Coaching Points
- Punch the bottom hand toward the ball
- Keep hands in front of the body
- Reduce rebounds by "giving" with the stick
- Practice with tennis balls and other small balls to improve hand speed and control
Training Tools
Brad recommends using:
- Tennis balls
- Racquetballs
- Foam balls
- Golf balls (with appropriate supervision)
- Long poles during drills
- Boxing glove drills for proper hand extension
Mental Game
Positive Goalie Mindset
Brad prefers teaching a positive mindset rather than simply "mental toughness."
Key ideas include:
- Every goal is a learning opportunity.
- Forget mistakes quickly.
- Focus on the next save.
- Use teammates as a support system.
- Win and lose as a team.
Leadership
Brad believes:
- Every goalie becomes a leader.
- Communication is a skill that develops over time.
- Leadership learned in lacrosse translates into life beyond sports.
Advice for Young Goalies
- Stick with the position.
- Find techniques that work for your body.
- Continue learning.
- Build confidence through repetition.
- Don't compare yourself to other goalies.
Favorite Goalie Influences
Brad discusses learning from:
- Matt Palumb
- Sal LoCascio
- Charley Toomey
- Sean Quirk
Memorable Quotes
"Practice doesn't make perfect. Practice makes permanent."
"You're not just choosing to become a goalie. You're choosing to become a leader."
"If you can save a tennis ball, you can save a lacrosse ball."
"Find what works for you."
Resources Mentioned
- Six by Six Goalie Academy
- LAX Goalie Rat Online Camp
- Chris Buck's The Goalie Bible (practice philosophy)
Key Takeaways
- Great goalie coaching starts with understanding the individual athlete.
- Leadership is one of the greatest skills a goalie develops.
- Strong fundamentals create consistency.
- Mental resilience is built through preparation and perspective.
- Small improvements every day lead to long-term success.
About the Guest
Brad Gigliotti is the founder of Six by Six Goalie Academy in Michigan. With decades of experience coaching youth, high school, and collegiate goalies, Brad focuses on developing technically sound, mentally resilient, and confident lacrosse goalies through personalized instruction.
