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Originally Posted by SanDiegoSteve
I agree that the GD is great, but only when sitting behind a catcher who can, like most HS varsity or JV catchers (or higher levels).
When you work with small children who can't catch the ball very often, especially pitches which are barely inside and would require them to move their gloves a couple inches, the GD stance will get you beat up. I know, because I tried taking it from the HS game back down to the kiddie ball game, and it just doesn't give me the confidence I need to relax and call the game. In the GD, I would get hit constantly in the forearm, wrists, and hands.
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Now I agree !
If I were to go back to doing younger kids (and I probably will when know one else will have me), I would definitely work a knee, fold my arms into my waist, and lean way over to protect them.
The levels I think you get hurt the most with are Freshman HS, and 12 YRO on the 60' Diamond. Freshman catchers can't catch, and Freshman pitchers have no control. 12 YRO are way too powerful for a 60' diamond, and the catchers just can't react fast enough, no matter how hard they try.
And Steve, please don't take the [and I probably will when know one else will have me] as a negative comment to wards lower level umpires. I cut my teeth in LL, and I can attest to the fact that it isn't easy. Also, quality umpires are needed at that level, just as much as any other level.