LGR 264: Just Have Fun with Rutgers Goalie Cardin Stoller

In this episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon sits down with Rutgers starting goalie Carden Stoller to discuss his journey into the cage, the techniques that have shaped his game, and what it takes to compete at the Division I level.

Carden’s path to becoming a lacrosse goalie began with a last-minute request during a fifth-grade field day. After volunteering to play goalie without owning any equipment, he showed up with a used STX Eclipse and discovered that he enjoyed the position. His previous experience as a baseball catcher and soccer goalie gave him the hand-eye coordination, fearlessness, and athletic instincts needed to develop quickly.

Carden explains how those sports continue to influence his playing style today. One of the most recognizable parts of his technique is a small pre-shot hop that helps him feel balanced, athletic, and explosive. He discusses how he times the movement, when it works best, and why he may eliminate it when defending quick passes and shots near the crease.

The conversation also explores the evolution of goalie technique. Carden shares how he transitioned from taking traditional 45-degree steps toward the ball to using more lateral movements as shooters became faster and more accurate. He also discusses his willingness to make unconventional saves, including using his legs or “flopping” on close-range shots.

Although those saves may look exciting, Carden emphasizes that he never intentionally practices flopping during warmups. Instead, he focuses on strong fundamentals, clean saves, body positioning, and rebound control. During games, however, his first responsibility is to stop the ball by any means necessary.

Carden also takes listeners through his recruiting process. Despite not being considered a highly ranked recruit, he sent dozens of emails to college programs and continued promoting himself until Rutgers showed interest. His story demonstrates the importance of persistence, self-belief, and finding a program that values what a player can bring to the team.

At Rutgers, Carden has embraced the program’s fast-paced “NASCAR” identity. He explains why making clean saves is so important, how goalies can begin transition offense, and why clearing is an essential part of playing the modern position. He also discusses learning from Rutgers goalie coach and professional goalie Drake Porter.

The episode concludes with lessons about leadership, trusting your defense, responding to difficult games, and appreciating every opportunity to play. Carden encourages young goalies to embrace the uniqueness of the position, remain patient through early struggles, and remember to have fun.