LGR 099: 2007 Goalie Of the Year Cornell's Matt McMonagle

Episode 99: Matt McMonagle – Lessons from a Goalie of the Year

In this episode of the LAX Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon Wilson sits down with 2007 C. Markland Kelly Award winner Matt McMonagle, one of the most accomplished goalies in Cornell lacrosse history.

Matt reflects on his journey from defending a bench during elementary school recess to becoming a three-time All-American and the nation's top collegiate goalie. He shares how he developed his unique style, the importance of film study and visualization, and why every goalie should take ownership of their own development.

The conversation also explores one of the most emotional moments in Cornell lacrosse history—the loss of teammate George Boiardi—and how that tragedy shaped Matt, his teammates, and the culture of the program for years to come.

Whether you're a young goalie, coach, or lacrosse fan, this episode is packed with practical advice, mental training strategies, and inspiring stories from one of the game's great goalkeepers.

In This Episode

• Matt's journey from first-time goalie to Cornell standout

• Growing up playing lacrosse in the Philadelphia area

• The recruiting process that led him to Cornell

• Earning the starting job as a freshman

• The impact of George Boiardi's legacy on Cornell lacrosse

• Developing a personalized goalie style instead of copying others

• Why experimenting with stance, hand position, and arc matters

• Using film study to recognize shooter tendencies

• The mental side of goaltending and staying focused after goals allowed

• Visualization routines and pregame preparation

• Strength training, competition, and building resilience

• Winning the 2007 C. Markland Kelly Award

• Transitioning from college to Major League Lacrosse

• Life after lacrosse and a career in renewable energy

• Advice for young goalies looking to improve

Key Takeaways

• Every goalie should develop a style that fits their own strengths.

• Film study helps identify shooter habits without relying on guessing.

• Mental preparation is just as important as physical training.

• Visualization can build confidence and improve game performance.

• Great goalies remember mistakes to learn from them—but never let those mistakes affect the next play.

• Competing means giving your full effort, even when failure is possible.

• Goalies should take ownership of their training and not be afraid to say no to unproductive shooting sessions.

Resources Mentioned

• LAX Goalie Summit

• The Hard Hat by Jon Gordon

• 1984 by George Orwell

Connect

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