leonardo

I am not opposed to coaches teaching and working on things in blowout games like this as long as it doesn't further delay the game. I can tell you that there have been a few times where I have gone over to the team that was winning and advised them that the zone was widening and their players needed to be swinging. I have never had a coach complain or be concerned about that tactic. Sometimes they even come over and recommend it themselves!

For a chest protector, I would recommend the Champion Hard Shell. I bought one recently and love it. It is way less than half the price of West Vest and I think just as protective. I have been hit a couple times since I bought it (once it the shoulder) and basically felt nothing. The ball just glanced or bounced off. I bought mine at betterbaseball.com because they had the best price I could find. It took a couple weeks for shipping though because it was backordered. I also just got my Reebok plate shoes yesterday. I get to work my first game with them this weekend. They feel great though! Anyway, that is the CP I would recommend. As far as shin guards, I am thinking about buying the Pro-9's. You might give them a look.

I am only a little over 5'8 but I went ahead and got the 15 inch one for a little better coverage. I had a buddy take a shot in the stomach a couple weeks back wearing his west vest. We worked together a week later and he was still sore from it. I like that Champion has the different sizes. Anyway, I am working a high school tournament this weekend so I will finally get to give it a test run.

I just bought the champion hard shell protector and got it delivered yesterday. I haven't taken it into battle yet, but the quality looks good. I also have tried it on and it fits extremly well. I am excited to get it on for some games tomorrow night and test it out. I have tried on and looked at all the WV models and in my opinion, this product is just as good at less than half the cost. Only difference to me seems to be the padding on the Champion is maybe just a little less thick. Best of all, it cost me under $50 with shipping included. Can't beat that with a stick!

I saw a review finally on Officiating.com by one guy who had bought the new DavisShield. He didn't think it was protective enough. Anybody else seen or tried this product yet?

I wondered if anyone has bought or seen the new Gerry Davis chest protector yet. I have been looking at it and thinking about buying. It looks like a great protector but I can't find any reviews from anyone that has bought it yet. Anybody know anything about it?