This episode is sponsored by Thigh Pro. Use that special link for 10% off.
Austin Kaut’s journey to the top of professional lacrosse isn’t the typical path.
He didn’t grow up as a goalie. He didn’t dominate right away. In fact, he admits he was scared of the ball and struggled for years before things finally clicked. But through relentless training, elite mentorship, and a commitment to mastering the mental side of the game, Kaut built himself into a champion.
That mindset was on full display during the PLL Championship Series.
After starting 0–2, Kaut and Chaos refused to fold. In a fast-paced, goalie-unfriendly format, he delivered one of the most impressive stretches of his career setting a Championship Series saves record and backstopping his team to a title. Instead of playing traditional goalie, Kaut adapted, challenging shooters aggressively, baiting shots, even switching hands mid-play to throw opponents off.
In this episode, Kaut breaks down:
How Chaos stayed confident after a 0–2 start and flipped their season
Why the Championship Series format forces goalies to play unorthodox and take risks
His strategy of baiting shooters, coming out aggressively, and forcing misses—not just saves
The importance of limiting two-point shots and controlling momentum
How he mentally resets after every goal with his “next shot is the only shot” mindset
What it really means to be a backup—and how to stay ready for your moment
Kaut’s story proves that success in goal isn’t about perfection—it’s about adaptability, toughness, and showing up when it matters most. His message is simple; it doesn’t matter how you start, it matters if you’re ready when your moment comes.
Unlock your full potential inside the premier training program for lacrosse goalies. Get exclusive access to technique tutorials, drills, mental game strategies, lacrosse IQ development, and direct coaching from Coach Damon. Join 400+ goalies who are leveling up their skills and confidence.
Being a goalie parent is harder than playing the position. That’s why I created the Lacrosse Goalie Super Mom/Dad course - designed for parents with zero lacrosse experience who still want to support their goalie. You’ll learn how to train them (yes, really), but more importantly, how to guide them through the emotional highs and lows of the game.
Promote your brand, product, or service by sponsoring the Lax Goalie Rat newsletter. It's the easiest way to get noticed by a passionate and highly targeted community of lacrosse goalies and coaches.
Lacrosse is my passion! The game has given me so much and this blog is my way of giving back to the lax community. Specifically the most bad a$$ part of that community - the goalies! After learning to play goalie from scratch, I wanted to create a site where I could share what I learned with others so they too can become champions in the crease and in life. Learn more about Coach Damon.
Elevate Your Lacrosse Goalie’s Game with Expert Coaching!
Join the Lax Goalie Rat Academy for top-tier virtual goalie training! Boost your young goalie's confidence, skills, and success - so you can be the proud goalie Mom or Dad on the sideline 🔥
14 Amazing Lacrosse Goalie DrillsAug. 1, 2024
Quick Guide To Lacrosse Slang TermsApril 14, 2025
Lacrosse Goalies Rules To KnowJune 28, 2022
Lacrosse Goalie Step-by-Step Guide to Getting RecruitedFebruary 6, 2022
18 Lacrosse Goalie Drills to Improve Your GameApril 24, 2025
7 Elements of a Great Lacrosse Goalie StanceAug. 1, 2020
12 Lacrosse Goalie Tips To Take Your Game to the Next LevelSeptember 10, 2024
STX Eclipse 3 Goalie Head ReviewApril 24, 2025
Lacrosse Goalie WorkoutAug. 12, 2019
The Basics of Making a SaveJune 29, 2021
