Parents today sometimes think they need to choose between youth sports programs that focus on long-term development of the entire athlete, and those that play to win.

Kiernan Coles shows that no choice is needed between these two and in fact they go hand-in-hand. The Mercer Island Lacrosse alum went on to play for reigning Division I champion Cornell before returning to coach at the Club.

We discuss how MILC focuses on discipline, accountability, mentorship, and deep investment in youth as the foundation of a lasting winning culture . Kiernan shares how Mercer Island prepared him for college through discipline and resilience, and he reflects on what he learned working through severe adversity, including multiple family losses and a season-ending injury.

Kiernan explains what separates top players (extra work and accountability), offers parent advice about letting kids own the journey, and explains why he returns to coach and mentor the next generation.

Note: opinions expressed are those of the host and guest and not necessarily those of MILC.

What does it look like when the right habits, built early, compound over time?

Evan Condon lived that process, growing up in Mercer Island Lacrosse, helping win a state championship, playing Division 1 lacrosse at West Point and serving as an Army officer, and returning to the Club to give back by coaching the next generation.

We talk about what carries forward, and why that matters.

Among other topics, we discuss:

-- The habits that most shaped Evan's trajectory.

--What matters more: talent, or discipline and caring deeply?

--What separates players who thrive from those who struggle?

--What parents sometimes overemphasize (versus what actually matters).

This conversation about our culture and approach to long-term development shows what can happen when you play The Long Game.

Note: opinions expressed are those of the host and guest and not necessarily those of MILC.

The Long Game uses the story of the Mercer Island Lacrosse Club to explore the habits, values, and culture that shape athletes and build lasting success in youth sports

Every great program starts with a few people who believe something different is possible. In the podcast's first episode, we sit down with Mark Larson, one of the founders of the Mercer Island Lacrosse Club (MILC) and still a current coach. We explore how the program began and the conscious decisions that shaped its culture from the start.

What started as a small effort to build opportunities for young players grew into one of the most unique and successful lacrosse communities on the west coast. But the real story isn't about wins and losses--it's about building a culture where players learn Loyalty, Tradition, Discipline, and habits that create success long after the final whistle.

Mark reflects on the early days of program, the deliberate choices that drove its identity and culture, and MILC's focus on long-term development.

The Long Game explores the habits, values, culture, and stories that shape athletes and consistently produce champions, both on and off the field.

If you enjoyed the episode, follow the show and share it with other parents, coaches, and players. And let us know what you think at thelonggamemi@gmail.com

Note: The views expressed are those of the host and guest and do not necessarily reflect those of Mercer Island Lacrosse Club.