The Return
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In this highly anticipated return episode of The Run Out, host Neil Barrett opens up about his recent personal transition—moving back to North Carolina after a month-long absence due to life events, which coincided with a packed lacrosse calendar including the NLL playoffs, NCAA tournament, and the start of the PLL season. He expresses gratitude to fans for their support during his absence and sets a hopeful tone for the future of the show. The episode dives deep into the NLL Finals, where Toronto Rock faces Halifax Thunderbirds in a matchup of contrasting trajectories: Toronto’s young, rising roster versus Halifax’s veteran-laden squad seeking their first-ever title. The hosts debate playoff formats, rookie impact, and the emotional weight of long-suffering franchises. They then shift to the NCAA tournament, analyzing major upsets like Duke’s comeback over Richmond, Johns Hopkins’ overtime win over defending champion Cornell, and Georgetown’s historic victory over Virginia. The discussion highlights team momentum, coaching rumors (notably Lars Tiffany’s contract status), and standout performers like Chad Palumbo and Nate Kabiri. The PLL’s opening weekend is reviewed with mixed reactions—enthusiasm for new talent and expansion opportunities, but criticism of inconsistent play and logistical chaos due to missing players. The hosts express cautious optimism for the upcoming WLL season and end with personal updates, community engagement, and a call to action for listeners to join the Lax Lifers Club and support the show.
Toronto Rock’s young core, including rookies like CJ Kirst and Owen Hiltz, has exceeded expectations and propelled them to their first NLL Finals since 2015.
Halifax Thunderbirds’ deep playoff run represents a franchise breakthrough, making their first Finals appearance a historic milestone.
Duke’s upset win over Richmond was fueled by a late 5-goal rally and Richmond’s critical turnovers in the fourth quarter.
Georgetown’s 8th consecutive win over Virginia marks a historic shift in the rivalry and signals a dominant season for the Hoyas.
The PLL’s opening weekend showcased immense talent but highlighted roster instability due to NLL commitments, creating a 'trial by fire' for new players.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Neil's Return & Life Update
“I'm sorry, all I can see is this thing on my nose. I scratched my nose raw somehow. I don't even know what happened.”
NLL Finals: Toronto vs. Halifax
“I think it is good for them as a franchise to have this success. Since going there, they just haven't. It's always like a one-and-done playoff situation for them.”
NCAA Tournament Upsets & Analysis
“You had a three-goal lead in the fourth quarter. That place is rocking. Everybody's supporting you. And then Duke scores five straight goals. You had five possessions in the fourth quarter after 12-9, and all five of them ended up in a turnover.”
Chad Palumbo & Midfield Dominance
The hosts reflect on Chad Palumbo’s 67-point season, his potential to break the 70-point barrier, and the overlooked contributions of Nate Kabiri. They discuss the rarity of such a feat from a midfielder.
PLL Week 1: Chaos & Opportunity
A review of the PLL’s opening weekend, highlighting standout performances from players like Dylan Ward and CK Giancola, while critiquing inconsistent play and the logistical chaos caused by missing NLL players.
“You had a three-goal lead in the fourth quarter. That place is rocking. Everybody's supporting you. And then Duke scores five straight goals.”
“I think it is good for them as a franchise to have this success. Since going there, they just haven't. It's always like a one-and-done playoff situation for them.”
“It's just not possible. There are just not enough spots on the field.”
Hosts
Brandon Hooten
person
Toronto Rock
other
Neil Barrett
person
Halifax Thunderbirds
other
Duke Blue Devils
other
Cornell Big Red
other
Richmond Spiders
other
Virginia Cavaliers
other
Georgetown Hoyas
other
Johns Hopkins Blue Jays
other
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