Jul 18 2024 50 mins
In this episode of the New England Lacrosse Journal's 'Chasing the Goal' podcast, hosts Kyle Devitte and Jack Piatelli welcome returning St. John's Prep head coach John Pynchon. The episode covers Pynchon's coaching journey, the challenges of managing a large and successful lacrosse program, and the cultural values that underpin his team's accomplishments. They delve into the significance of the 2020 Covid season, the impact of star player Jimmy Ayers, and the transitions in high school lacrosse dynamics, including the role of club teams. The discussion also touches on the perceptions and criticisms faced by successful programs and the importance of focusing on the development of students beyond the sport. The episode closes with reflections on the potential for new competitive structures in high school lacrosse.
Topics
01:23 Guest Introduction: John Pynchon
02:00 The Lightning Delay Game
05:39 Jimmy Ayers: A Star Player
10:50 Building a Successful Program
15:06 Challenges and Misconceptions
22:42 Dealing with Criticism
28:26 Addressing Animosity in Coaching
29:33 Complaints and Misconceptions
32:05 Building a Winning Program
34:27 Challenges and Growth
38:45 Proposing a Super Catholic League
43:54 Balancing Club and High School Lacrosse
50:23 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections