Emily Markley On Translating Your Confidence Outside Of Lacrosse Into The Cage – LGR 228

By Coach Damon

Last updated: November 13, 2023

Posted In: Podcast

On today’s episode of the Lax Goalie Rat Podcast, I’m thrilled to be joined by Emily Markley, netminder from Washington College.

Emily, currently entering her junior year at DIII Washington College, is set on securing the starting position for her team this upcoming season. After serving as the primary backup goaltender during her first two seasons with the Shorewomen, she’s eager to make her mark.

In her initial two years at Washington College, Emily maintained an 11.69 GAA, a .412 save percentage, and showcased her skills with 33 saves and 5 caused turnovers. Her best performance occurred during her freshman season when she made 10 crucial saves in the second half against St. Mary’s (Md.).

Unlike many college goalies, Emily didn’t start playing lacrosse until her freshman year of high school.

Introduced to the sport by her brother, who played it in high school, Emily embraced the challenge. Her background as a point guard in basketball caught the attention of her coaches, leading her to the goalie position, where her fast hands proved invaluable.

Hailing from Remington, VA, Emily lacked a goalie coach in her hometown. Undeterred, she attended the Bill Pilat Goalie school and numerous college prospect camps, learning the ropes from experienced coaches while building connections in the recruiting process.

Committing to Washington College during the challenges of COVID-19, Emily was recruited based solely on her highlight tape, as coaches couldn’t attend games. Stepping onto the campus, she knew it was where she wanted to be.

In the podcast, Emily shares insights into the process of creating highlight tapes for recruiting purposes.

Beyond her prowess in lacrosse, Emily is an accomplished musician, recently earning the first chair violinist position in her school’s orchestra.

She rediscovered music during her freshman year, using it as a therapeutic outlet after experiencing significant personal challenges, including the loss of her mother to cancer.

Emily envisions pursuing a graduate degree in music therapy after college, highlighting the transformative power of music in her life.

Emily attributes her passion for music to boosting her confidence in lacrosse. On the podcast, she emphasizes the importance of cultivating passions outside of the sport and channeling that energy to build confidence in goalie performance.

As a member of the LGBTQ community, Emily dedicates time to serving on her student-athlete organization, supporting LGBTQ individuals at her school. She takes immense pride in being an LGBTQ student-athlete, contributing to a broader conversation about diversity and inclusion.

Emily’s journey is truly inspiring, showcasing resilience and self-discovery through challenging times.

I’m delighted she joined me on the show, and I hope you enjoy this episode where we delve into topics such as late-starting in lacrosse, maintaining mental health, and embracing pride as an LGBTQ student-athlete.