In this inspiring episode, Host Coach Jordan Bledsoe sits down with Jay Maietta, the Recreation Director for the Town of Fishkill, to explore the often-overlooked impact of recreation-level sports on youth development. Jay shares his philosophy on designing programs that meet kids where they are—emotionally, physically, and socially—and how taking creative risks in program design can lead to more inclusive, engaging, and lasting experiences.

From the importance of unstructured play to the long-term benefits of fostering joy over competition, this conversation dives deep into what makes youth sports truly meaningful. Jay and Jordan discuss how the “organic” youth sports experience—free from pressure and focused on connection—can shape better athletes and, more importantly, better people.

Whether you're a coach, parent, or community leader, this episode offers valuable insights into building programs that prioritize growth, belonging, and fun.

Tune in and discover how recreation can be a powerful tool for lifelong development.

In this powerful and introspective episode, The Better Athletes welcomes legendary lacrosse player CJ Costabile for a candid conversation recorded on the very day he was released by the New York Atlas. Arguably the best LSM to ever play the game, known for one of the most iconic goals in NCAA Championship history and a career defined by grit, leadership, and relentless passion, CJ opens up about what this moment means—not just for his future in the sport, but for his identity as an athlete and person.

With remarkable vulnerability, CJ reflects on the highs and lows of a journey that’s inspired a generation of players. From Duke glory to professional battles, from lifting trophies to facing the reality of what could be the end, this conversation captures a man at the crossroads of legacy and transition.

Whether you’re a lacrosse fan, an athlete facing your own turning point, or someone navigating change, this episode delivers perspective, emotion, and authenticity in spades.

Tune in for:

• The field level story behind that 2010 OT goal
• What it’s like to get released when you’re not ready to stop
• Honest reflections on aging, identity, and what’s next
• Lessons learned over a decade-plus career at the top

In this episode, host Coach Jordan Bledsoe, sits down with Pat Sullivan, a seasoned PGA professional and youth sports advocate. Together, they explore the intersection of athletic development and long-term personal growth, diving into the mental and physical frameworks that shape successful athletes.

Pat shares his journey through the world of golf, the lessons he's learned from coaching at various levels, and how he applies those insights to help young athletes thrive both on and off the course. Jordan shares some of his experiences with Pat, personally & professionally that have formed their bond over the years.

Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode offers practical wisdom and inspiring stories to help you build better athletes—and better people!

Email: psullivan3@pga.com

PGA: Click Here

LUV Summer Junior Golf Academy: Click Here

Links at Unionvale: Click Here

PGA Junior League: Click Here

In this episode of The Better Athletes Podcast, host Coach Jordan Bledsoe engaged in a conversation that could easily take place on the sidelines of a lacrosse field, anywhere along the east coast, on any given weekend. Deemer Class, the owner & operator of First Class Lacrosse & its numerous remarkable sub-brands, shared their insight on various topics, including coaching philosophy, the complexity of multi-sport vs early specialization, the influence of play-up culture, & the importance of cultivating a giving mentality to build a strong brand. Additionally, they discussed the experiences that have shaped their career in sports. This episode is an invaluable resource for lacrosse players, parents, & young coaches seeking to navigate the competitive lacrosse landscape and achieve their goals.

Email: deemer@1stclasslax.com

FCL: Website

FCL: Newsletter

FCL: Best in Class Combine

FCL: Podcast

In this episode of The Better Athletes Podcast, host Coach Jordan Bledsoe sits down with Coach Andrew Pyke to explore the mindset, methods, & strategies that help athletes reach their peak performance. From training philosophies, what the ASCA is doing to prep for the 2032 Olympics, to some buy-in tactics that crushed in the weight room but flopped in the adjacent neighborhood - Coach Pyke shares insights that every athlete, parent, & strength coach - whether amateur or elite - can apply to their athletic journey.

Email: Andrewpyke_sc@hotmail.com

Website: Home - Andrew Pyke

ASCA Website: Home - ASCA

ASCA Podcast: Podcast - ASCA

In this episode, we're joined by Jordan Bledsoe, owner & director of performance at Velocity Sports Performance.

Jordan breaks down the PAR Model - "Pyramid of Advantage & Reality" - a powerful model for navigating youth sports - & shares insights on everything from pressure and entitlement to physical prep and personal growth.

Lets dive in!