Introduction: In the world of sports, the mental game often outweighs the physical. This edition of the Between the Pipes Newsletter explores how the mental disciplines of golf—a game of patience, precision, and individuality—mirror the challenges faced by lacrosse goalies. We'll delve into three core principles that champions in both fields adhere to for success: focusing on what can be controlled, the power of mindlessness, and the courage to play one's own game.

1. Defining Success Around Things You Can Control Golf Perspective: Golfers face myriad variables—weather, course conditions, the crowd. The best golfers narrow their focus to what they can control: their swing, their strategy, and their response to each shot. World #1 Scottie Scheffler had this to say “How I define success has always been my approach,” Scheffler said. “If I show up to tournaments and I'm prepared and I'm ready to play and I show up with a good attitude and a good...

In this edition of the Between the Pipes Newsletter, let's embark on a fascinating exploration of the mental fortitude shared by elite tennis players and lacrosse goalies. The intersection of managing emotions, playing the long game, and dealing with pressure situations forms the bedrock of a champion's mindset. Here's a detailed look into these key elements:

1. Managing Emotions: The Heart of the Game

Elite tennis players stand tall not just for their physical prowess but for their ability to navigate the complex terrain of emotions on the court. They don't shy away from their feelings; instead, they embrace them as an integral part of their performance. Tennis great Novak Djokovic had this to say about managing self-doubt: “I’ve done so much mindfulness that my brain functions better now automatically … I used to freeze up whenever I made a mistake. Now when I blow a serve or shank a backhand, I still get those flashes of self-doubt- as they come …...

In the world of sports, certain moments become etched in history, not just for their triumphs but also for the lessons they impart. Today, we revisit a pivotal moment in hockey history: Edmonton Oilers defenseman Steve Smith's unfortunate mistake in the 1985 Stanley Cup playoffs against the Calgary Flames and how you can take those lessons and apply them to the lacrosse goalie position.

Edmonton Oilers 1985-1986 Season

The Edmonton Oilers of the 1985-1986 season were nothing short of legendary and often considered one of the most elite teams in NHL history. Boasting the top record in the NHL, and six future NHL Hall of Famers led by Wayne Gretzky (who set and stills holds the single season points record at 215), the Oilers were heavy favorites to win a third consecutive Stanley Cup Championship. Hockey Reference

Steve Smith's Crucial Error:

Picture this – it's the 1985 Stanley Cup playoffs, Game 7 of the Smythe Division Final, and tensions are high between the Edmonton...