Podcast Show Notes: LAX Goalie Rat Podcast — Episode with 14-Year-Old Goalie Austin Kitsis

Episode Overview

In this episode of the LAX Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon Wilson sits down with 14-year-old lacrosse goalie Austin Kitsis for a unique conversation focused on the journey of a young goalie developing his skills, confidence, and mental toughness.

Unlike the usual conversations with professional and college goalies, this episode dives into the perspective of a younger athlete who is still growing, learning, and working toward his dream of playing Division I lacrosse. Austin shares how he first stepped into the goal because his team needed a goalie, how he learned the position, and what keeps him motivated to continue improving.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• How Austin became a lacrosse goalie after stepping up for his team

• Why being scared of the ball is normal — even for experienced goalies

• The drills and habits Austin uses to build confidence and improve his game

• How watching goalie videos helped him develop his technique

• The importance of working with coaches and learning from experienced players

• Why the mental side of goaltending is one of the hardest parts of the position

• How to recover after giving up goals and develop a short memory

• Austin’s advice for younger goalies who are just starting out

• The mindset needed to chase a Division I lacrosse goal

Key Topics Discussed

Overcoming Fear as a Goalie

Austin talks about the challenge every goalie faces: standing in front of a hard shot and trusting yourself. He shares how drills, experience, and repetition helped him become more comfortable in the cage.

The Mental Game of Goaltending

One of Austin’s biggest areas of focus is improving his confidence and staying mentally strong during games. Coach Damon and Austin discuss the importance of having a short memory, focusing on the next save, and not letting outside pressure affect performance.

Learning Through Practice and Film

Austin explains how he has used YouTube videos, goalie coaching, tennis ball drills, and live shots to improve his technique. He also shares how studying elite goalies like Alex Rode, Tim Troutner, and Drake Porter has influenced his own style of play.

The Goal of Playing Division I Lacrosse

Austin shares his dream of becoming a Division I goalie and talks about the goalies who inspire him. He explains how having a strong “why” helps him stay motivated and continue putting in the work.

Austin’s Advice for Young Goalies

Austin’s biggest message for younger goalies is simple: don’t give up. The fear and challenges that come with the position get easier with time, and every improvement helps you grow as a player.

Favorite Quotes From the Episode

“You’re going to be scared of the ball at first. It happens to everyone. It gets better from there.”

“Every time you improve, you’re improving for life.”

“The biggest struggle for me is mental.”

About This Episode

This episode is a reminder that every great goalie starts somewhere. Whether you are a beginner learning the position or an experienced goalie chasing your next level, Austin’s story shows the value of consistency, hard work, and loving the process.

Tune in for an honest conversation about development, confidence, and what it takes to become a better lacrosse goalie.

Connect With Austin Kitsis

Instagram: @AustinKitsis

Sponsor Mention

This episode is brought to you by the Lacrosse Goalie Summit, featuring elite goalie training sessions covering technique, drills, mindset, nutrition, and more. Learn from some of the best goalie coaches and take your game to the next level.