Harvard coach Erik Farrar and the other players tested Byrd’s capability in goal through a “sink-or-swim method.” Instead of trying to methodically teach him how to play the position, the team focused more on using sheer playing time to improve Byrd’s skills.

The strategy seems to have paid off.

“I definitely think he is more confident in his skills,” Burmeister said. “He had a great games against Brown and Conn. College, and a huge part of goalkeeping is confidence.”

During the games, the goalie is not only accountable for stopping shots, but has to help coordinate the defense and constantly communicate with the offense information like the amount of time remaining on the shot clock. Byrd is settling into his position and learning how to speak up from the goal, which will be crucial at Easterns.

“He doesn’t talk quite as much [as Robbie],” Offsay said. “But he knows the game very well and has the respect of the team. If he tells us what to do, we’ll listen.”

The Crimson’s first game at Easterns will be against Salem International, a team which is “very offensively minded” according to Offsay. “We need Eric to keep it at a manageable pace.”

“If he stays confident and consistent, and I think he will, he could have a great tournament,” Burmeister added.

It’s not the position he signed on for, but Byrd is finding his new role equally satisfying as the old one.

“What’s better, making a steal on defense or stopping a shot? I’d say they’re about the same,” Byrd said. “But it’s nice to be able to play the hero and I feel like I can help the team a lot.”

In fact, Byrd’s success as a stand-in may have given him the confidence to do more “heroic” things beyond the edge of the pool.

“If you hear about any kids in a burning building or anything, give me a call,” he added.

—Staff writer Megha Parekh can be reached at parekh@fas.harvard.edu.