Calm Mind and Competitive Edge with Princeton Goalie Ryan Croddick – Episode 291

By Coach Damon

February 20, 2026

Posted In: Podcast

This episode is sponsored by Thigh Pro. Use coupon code LGR for a discount!

From backyard battles with his brothers to anchoring the cage for the Princeton Tigers men’s lacrosse, Ryan Croddick’s journey to becoming Princeton’s starting goalie is rooted in grit, gratitude, and growth.

Croddick first stepped into the crease in third or fourth grade, initially just another kid rotating through the position. But by the next year, his coaches told him to leave the field stick at home and bring only the goalie stick. Why? He wasn’t afraid of the ball. Growing up playing hockey from the age of two and competing daily with his brothers in backyard lacrosse and street hockey, fear simply wasn’t part of the equation.

Much of Ryan’s early development was self-driven. Before formal goalie coaching, he relied on film study, mirror work, and hand-eye drills in his room, teaching himself to juggle because he believed every serious goalie had to. Later, reviewing slow-motion film of his stance and pre-shot movement became a major breakthrough in refining his technique.

At Princeton, Croddick embraced the grind of backing up elite talent before earning his turn as the starter. That experience sharpened his competitive edge and deepened his leadership. He credits much of his growth to the program’s culture, built on togetherness, accountability, and brotherhood that extends beyond lacrosse into the academic rigor of an Ivy League institution.

On game day, his preparation reflects his personality: composed, intentional, and grounded. He listens to the Grateful Dead to stay calm, juggles to sharpen his hands, and participates in a pregame gratitude ritual with teammates before heading into the locker room. It’s a mindset focused less on hype and more on presence.

Technically, Croddick blends strong hands, smart baiting, and evolving footwork around the crease. He studies shooter tendencies without overthinking, trusting instinct over guesswork. A firm believer in playing with personality, he understands that resilience isn’t just about “getting the next one,” it’s about growth, self-awareness, and embracing your style.

Despite preseason recognition, Croddick remains focused on one goal: writing a new chapter in Princeton lacrosse history.

His message to goalies everywhere is simple: Have as much fun as possible.

Enjoy my conversation with star goalie Ryan Croddick!

Ryan Croddick