LGR 078: Lacrosse Goalie Communication

Episode Summary

In this solo episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, Coach Damon Wilson dives into one of the most overlooked—but most important—skills for lacrosse goalies:

Communication.

Making saves is only half the job.

Great goalies are also defensive leaders. They organize the defense, direct slides, communicate offensive threats, manage clears, and ensure everyone on the field knows exactly what's happening.

This episode breaks down the vocabulary, commands, and communication habits every goalie should master to become the quarterback of the defense.

Why Communication Matters

One of Coach Damon's biggest frustrations is hearing coaches yell:

"Talk!"

without ever teaching players what they should actually be saying.

Communication is a skill.

Just as players learn:

• Stick skills
• Footwork
• Positioning
• Shooting

They must also learn:

• Defensive terminology
• Slide calls
• Clear commands
• Recovery communication

A defense can't communicate effectively if nobody knows the language.