Welcome to episode 200 of the Lax Goalie Rat podcast!
I still remember chatting with Ryan LaPlante for episode #1 back in 2018. Now here we are. 5 years and 199 episodes later and sitting down to chat with a goalie for an hour is still just as exciting!
For this special episode I talk to Loyola Maryland goalie Luke Staudt, who is making waves this season as one of the breakout players in college lacrosse.
Staudt has emerged as the Greyhounds’ starting goalie this year and has already played more than 470 minutes in goal, with a 10.46 goals-against average and a .573 save percentage. These impressive statistics have earned him a spot as the seventh-ranked goalie in the nation.
His most recent recognition came after the Greyhounds’ 13-8 victory over Johns Hopkins, during which he allowed just five goals in almost 55 minutes of play.
But Staudt’s journey to becoming one of the best goalies in college lacrosse wasn’t an easy one.
He started playing lacrosse late in the 3rd grade on a winter pickup rec team. Luke remembers his first save, a step down from six yards out that didn’t exactly feel great to take to the body.
However, thanks to some encouragement from his mom Luke persisted and that commitment to the game would pay off big time
Staudt’s skills were further developed at West Genesee High School in Camillus, New York, where he had the opportunity to work with renowned coach Bob Deegan.
Playing for the powerhouse club program Sweetlax also helped Luke gain the attention of many college programs.
Although he was considering many top-notch programs such as Syracuse, Stuadt ultimately chose Loyola because of the opportunity to develop under legendary head coach Charley Toomey, the school’s renowned business program, and the close-knit community feel around the campus.
In our conversation, Luke shared insights about his training and preparation as a goalie, discussing the importance of reset routine and getting fired up after a save. He also offered advice to young goalies on the clearing game and how to break down film of shooters properly.
It was a pleasure chatting with Luke, and we wish him and the Greyhounds continued success this season!
“Another one that could be helpful is that I try to put eye black on before every game because it helps you see the ball better no matter the weather.”
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