Deny Goalkeeping is based in the San Francisco Bay area and focuses on the development of female athletes passionate about the art and science of Lacrosse, Soccer, and Field Hockey goalkeeping.
John Knowles
“The Goalie Whisperer”
With 15+ years of female athlete coaching experience from the youth to the collegiate level, in multiple sports, John brings a unique perspective and approach to goalkeeper development. As a certified coach for USA Lacrosse, US Soccer, and USA Hockey, he has the knowledge to customize your learning experience. As a certified mental performance coach, he can take your game to the next level by helping your master your inner game.
“We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with Coach John Knowles. Our daughter, Rachel, began working with Coach John at age 11 during weekly Lacrosse Goalie Clinics. We lived an hour away from the training facility but Rachel immediately found value in these clinics and was eager to return as often as possible. Coach John customizes each drill and lesson to meet every players’ individual skill level and need. He often questions the players to think about their actions, “What did you do well on that save, and why? What could you do differently next time?” He takes the time to talk through scenarios and answer players’ questions. He thinks outside the box to troubleshoot challenges and encourages his players to do the same. Rachel is now 13 years old and plays goalie for both lacrosse and soccer. Coach John has been extremely generous with his time, supporting her growth and confidence through clinics and semi-private lessons for both lacrosse and soccer. Rachel always looks forward to the next opportunity to work with Coach John Knowles.”
Jamie, Ken & Rachel Sielski (Lancaster, NY)
“Coach Knowles has been a rock to our Robert’s athletic teams. He embodies commitment, passion for the game, and overcomes obstacles with grace and determination. He has always been a sound mind and advocate and has taught us how to be intentional with our mental game as well as our on field play. It has been a game changer to understand the impact of mental health in athletics and how it shapes your experience as an athlete.”
Brooke Tangelder (Roberts Wesleyan University Lacrosse, Field Hockey ’25)
“He is an inspiration to my young lacrosse goalie.”
“My daughter was new to the goalie life when she met Coach John. John has had a huge impact on her skills and confidence! She told him her goal of playing at the club level & he worked with her to make it happen.”