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Dartmouth lacrosse goalie Andrew Cook joins the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast to talk about his journey to becoming a Division 1 goalie, how he trains, and the mindset he’s developed along the way.

Andrew’s goalie story started in first grade when his older brother needed someone to shoot on. What began with Andrew standing in the cage with a short stick eventually turned into a love for the position that took him from Utah to Torrey Pines, Johns Hopkins, and now Dartmouth.

One of the biggest themes of our conversation is training with intent.

Instead of simply grabbing a few shooters and taking random shots, Andrew structures his training around specific situations. One day might focus on outside shots, another on shots on the run, midrange shots and screens, or inside finishing.

We also get into the work Andrew has done away from live shots. His goalie training has included footwork ladders, jump rope, stepping drills, ankle weights, wall ball, juggling and other hand-eye work.

But becoming a great goalie isn’t just physical.

Andrew shares what he learned about the mental game while at Johns Hopkins, including meditation, box breathing and visualization. He also talks about learning to “play free” and finding ways to enjoy the process even when he wasn’t the starting goalie.

We discuss how he handled the scout team, what he learned playing alongside Chayse Ierlan, the stance adjustment he made when he arrived at Hopkins, and why goalies shouldn’t constantly obsess over their technique.

Plus, Andrew takes us inside Cookie Strings, talks goalie head design and stringing, and explains why he ultimately entered the transfer portal and chose Dartmouth.

There are a ton of lessons in this episode for young goalies who want to play at the next level, but Andrew’s philosophy can be summed up pretty simply:

Work hard. Train with purpose. Stay present. Love the game.

Show Notes

• Andrew Cook Johns Hopkins Profile
• Andrew Cook Instagram – Cookie Strings

Andrew Cook Video Interview

Andrew Cook Stick Setup

 

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A post shared by Andrew Cook (@cookie_strings)

• Goalie head: Currently deciding between the Warrior Answer and Maverik Krease
• Pocket: His own Cookie Strings setup
• Top string: He specifically mentions using the Sidewall Jedi “Hidden Jedi” top string on his Maverik Krease
• Release preference: Smooth release – he specifically says he doesn’t like feeling the ball hit the top plastic
• Grip: Likes goalie heads with a slimmer throat that lets his top hand get very high
• Pocket philosophy: He strings his own sticks and has been stringing since he was young

Andrew Cook Pics and Videos

 

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A post shared by USA Lacrosse Magazine (@usalmag)

 

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A post shared by Bryce Feldmaier (@bfeldy.psd)