Inside the Mind of Notre Dame Goalie Thomas Ricciardelli – Episode 286

By Coach Damon

December 5, 2025

Posted In: Podcast

This episode is sponsored by Thigh Pro:

Thomas Ricciardelli, from Connecticut attended The Taft school and is now the goalie for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Since arriving in South Bend, he has been part of some of the most successful years in the school’s history, including multiple NCAA national championship runs. Last year he was named an All-American Honorable Mention and All-ACC. He is known for his athleticism, poise, and commitment to constant improvement, Ricciardelli has swiftly become a trusted presence in the cage, and one of the top goalies in the country. His journey has been shaped by a commitment to mastering the details, a willingness to adapt, and a deep understanding of what it means to lead from the back line.

This season, Ricciardelli has focused on elevating the small mechanics that keep him consistent under pressure. One of his biggest developments has been adding a quick hop when moving pipe-to-pipe, a subtle reset that centers his balance and locks him in for the next shot. The hop isn’t just footwork; it’s a mental switch, a way to tell his body to settle, square up, and be ready the moment the ball leaves the shooter’s stick.

But what truly defines Ricciardelli’s growth is how much more cerebral he has become in the crease. After spending time helping younger goalies and studying the position from a coaching perspective, he now sees the game through a wider strategic lens. He reads plays earlier, anticipates threats faster, and approaches each possession with a heightened awareness of spacing, timing, and shooter tendencies.

With sharper mechanics, a more intentional mindset, and an elevated understanding of the position, Thomas Ricciardelli continues to solidify himself as a steady, reliable leader in the cage, and a goalie whose game keeps climbing. What separates him isn’t just raw talent, but the intentionality he brings to every rep, whether he’s breaking down film, mentoring younger goalies, or sharpening the details that give him an edge on game day. As he continues his rise with the Irish, Ricciardelli stands out as a poised and reliable leader whose best lacrosse still lies ahead.

We discuss his team’s run to 2 national championships and playing with Liam Entenmann.

Enjoy my conversation with stud goalie Thomas Ricciardelli!

Thomas Ricciardelli – Notre Dame Fighting Irish – Official Athletics ...