LGR Episode: Sam Schafer – Loyola Goalie on Viral Saves, Confidence & Having Fun

Loyola goalie Sam Schafer joins the LAX Goalie Rat Podcast to share his journey from getting cut from a club team to becoming one of the top goalies in college lacrosse. Sam opens up about his recruiting process, learning the position without a goalie coach, and the lessons he's learned playing under legendary Loyola coach Charley Toomey.

The conversation also dives into the viral game-saving stop against Denver that made headlines across the lacrosse world. Sam explains what he saw on the play, how he stayed composed in the biggest moment of the season, and why fundamentals always come first.

Coach Damon and Sam also discuss overcoming slumps, handling getting benched, film study, goalie training, and the importance of having fun while competing at the highest level.

In This Episode

• Sam's journey from getting cut in eighth grade to becoming Loyola's starting goalie

• Why he almost quit lacrosse before high school

• The Loyola recruiting process and why it became the perfect fit

• Learning goalie fundamentals under Coach Charley Toomey

• The footwork, stance, and hand positioning that Loyola goalies are taught

• Goalie drills and training routines used at the Division I level

• The value of wall ball and seeing live shots

• Recovering mentally after being benched during the season

• Why having a short memory is essential for goalies

• Breaking down Sam's viral game-winning save against Denver

• Using film study without overthinking shooters' tendencies

• Pregame routines and staying consistent on game day

• Why gratitude and enjoying the game can help break out of a slump

• Stick setup, pocket preferences, and gear discussion

• Advice for young goalies looking to improve

Key Takeaways

• Master the fundamentals before worrying about advanced techniques.

• Confidence comes from preparation and repetition.

• Don't let one bad game define your season.

• Seeing extra shots outside of practice can accelerate improvement.

• The best goalies stay loose, trust their training, and remember to have fun.

Whether you're a youth goalie, high school player, or college athlete, Sam shares valuable insight into the mindset and habits that helped him succeed at one of the nation's top lacrosse programs.