Corona del Mar Lacrosse Coach G.W. Mix with Mark Todd on Sunset Rewind

Coach G.W. Mix on Coaching, Competition, and Building a Lacrosse Identity

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For Corona del Mar High School Lacrosse Head Coach G.W. Mix, the game is about more than just competition—it’s about developing players, fostering a strong team culture, and shaping young athletes both on and off the field. In this episode, Coach Mix joins host Mark Todd to share his journey in coaching, the influences that shaped his philosophy, and his thoughts on the evolving landscape of high school lacrosse.

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A Coach’s Journey and Influences (1:20)

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Coach Mix reflects on his background, life beyond lacrosse, and the key mentors who inspired his coaching career. His drive to help others has been a defining force in his approach to the game.

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Community and Public School Pride (7:30)

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The culture of PS-76 and the pride of public school athletics play a major role in Coach Mix’s coaching philosophy. He discusses the unique bond between players, coaches, and the broader CdM community.

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The Art of Officiating (8:40)

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Mark Todd and Coach Mix share their thoughts on refereeing and the role of officials in the game, highlighting the challenges and nuances of making calls in a fast-paced sport like lacrosse.

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Developing Players for the Next Level (10:30)

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Many of Coach Mix’s players have gone on to compete at the collegiate level, including his own sons. He emphasizes that the dream to play at a high level must come from the player themselves.

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The Importance of Identity in Lacrosse (14:10)

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“You have to identify as a lacrosse player.” Coach Mix breaks down how commitment, consistency, and self-discipline translate into success both on and off the field.

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Academics, Character, and Integrity (15:00)

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Hard work doesn’t stop when practice ends. Coach Mix discusses the importance of discipline, what players do when no one is watching, and how academic excellence ties into the program’s values.

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Supporting Players Beyond the Field (17:00)

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Counseling and mentorship are key components of Coach Mix’s role at CdM. He sheds light on the importance of guiding players through both athletic and personal development.

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The Impact of COVID on Youth and High School Sports (19:10)

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Coach Mix reflects on how the pandemic affected sports at the youth and high school levels, reshaping the way teams prepare, compete, and stay connected.

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CdM Games and Rivalries (21:50)

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Every season comes with exciting matchups and fierce rivalries. Coach Mix dives into the biggest games on CdM’s schedule and what makes these rivalries so special.

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Standout Players This Season (24:00)

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Several players to keep an eye on this year so far:

• Garrett Ip – A standout for three years, following in the footsteps of his brother Logan Ip.
• Owen Majit – Took a journey through The Lawrenceville School before returning home, now committed to Bowdoin College.
• Dom DiFrancesco – Making a huge impact as a goalie.
• Truman Nielson Koch – A tall, talented goalie with great potential.

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The CdM Coaching Staff (26:10)

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Coach Mix is supported by a talented coaching team, each bringing unique expertise to the program:

• Coach Scott McGowan – Played at Miami.
• Coach Perry Craz – Started at Albany before transferring to Salisbury State.
• Coach Brandon Mayo – Won a championship playing at Concordia.
• Coach Ralph Lopez – Originally started coaching club soccer.
• Bonus mention: (Alumni) Jason Simaan – Former star player for the Sea Kings and played on Coach Lopez’s old club soccer team.

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Pacific Shootout Returning? (27:40)

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Coach Mix discusses the possibility of bringing back the Pacific Shootout, one of the region’s most anticipated lacrosse events.

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Big Upcoming Games (30:40)

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A look ahead at the key matchups on CdM’s schedule and the challenges the team will face this season.

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The Sunset League Competition (31:10)

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The Sunset League remains highly competitive, and Coach Mix breaks down what to expect from the top teams this season.

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A Coach’s Work Week During the Season (34:00)

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From practice planning to game strategy and player development, Coach Mix shares what a typical week looks like during the season.

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Finding Coaches and the Challenges of Building a Staff (36:00)

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With years of experience, Coach Mix shares insight into the challenges of assembling a strong coaching staff and ensuring the right people are leading young athletes.

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Advice for Young Athletes (39:00)

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For players looking to improve their game, Coach Mix stresses the importance of watching film, mastering fundamentals, and putting in extra work—like playing wall ball.

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With a seasoned coach at the helm and a strong foundation built on hard work and commitment, CdM Lacrosse continues to compete at a high level. Coach Mix’s passion for the game and his players is shaping not just better athletes but better young men.

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Thank you, Coach Mix, for joining the Sunset Rewind podcast! Go Sea Kings!