This article appears in the November edition of US Lacrosse Magazine. Don’t get the mag? Join US Lacrosse today to start your subscription.

Gussie Johns, the heir apparent to Devon Wills in goal for the U.S. women’s team, brings similar athleticism to the position as her predecessor and mentor.

Never shy about vacating the crease to double team or clear the ball, Johns emphasized her ability to stay a step ahead of attackers at a Team USA performance camp in August at US Lacrosse headquarters in Sparks, Md.

The Explosive Start

• Get into ready position.

• Keep one foot closest to your opponent’s back and your other foot right behind the line.

• Raise the arm opposite your front foot into running position.

• Put your weight on your front foot, loading over that hip to create power.

• When the whistle blows, drive your back knee up and out, pushing off of your front leg and pulling up your opposite arm at the same time. Do not rock backward or take a hitch step, as that will slow you down.

• Step across your opponent with your back foot to start boxing her out.