Gearing up behind the plate this season? Look no further than the Rawlings GG Elite series catchers mitt to take your game to the next level. As soon as you slip your hand into the supple pro-preferred leather, you’ll know this mitt means business. Here’s everything you need to know about catching greatness with the Rawlings GG Elite.
Introducing The Rawlings GG Elite Series
The Rawlings GG Elite series represents the cream of the crop when it comes to catchers mitts. Building on the iconic Rawlings Gold Glove line, the GG Elite takes premium materials and pro-inspired designs to the next level. We’re talking durability, protection, and performance dialed up to 11.
It all starts with exclusive Japanese pro-preferred leather meticulously crafted to be lightweight yet incredibly strong. We’re talking the kind of leather that requires minimal break-in but just gets better with age. This supple leather forms a snug pocket to swallow up everything from heaters to knuckleballs with ease.
Dual core protective foam and Paratex palm padding work together to reduce sting on those unavoidable foul tips. The Tennessee Tanning rawhide laces add vintage style while helping to accelerate break-in time. Modified trapeze webbing promotes quick ball transfer and superior grip.
In short, every design element of the GG Elite series is engineered for effortless control behind the plate. The difference is noticeable the first time you strap one of these mitts on. Let’s dive deeper into why this glove is quickly becoming a favorite among elite backstops.
Unmatched Durability With Pro-Preferred Leather
The foundation of any great mitt is the leather, and this is where the GG Elite truly separates itself. Rawlings sources premium steerhide pro-preferred leather that balances lightweight feel with rugged durability. It’s capable of withstanding the rigors of a long season but breaks in quickly to conform perfectly to your hand.
In fact, many catchers report their GG Elite is game ready after just a few practices. Yet the refined leather continues to gain character with more time in action. You’ll enjoy the perfect pocket and natural tack for years to come.
Breaking In Your New Mitt With Ease
Thanks to the professional grade leather and meticulous design, breaking in your new GG Elite mitt will be a breeze compared to stiff, cheap mitts. Focus on working the pocket and hinge areas to get the glove loosened up properly.
The Tennessee Tanning rawhide laces also help accelerate the break-in process. Use leather conditioner to soften up the material and don’t be afraid to pound your fist into the pocket to form that perfect pocket.
With a little time and care, your GG Elite will be gamer ready in no time. And the more you use it, the better it gets. Many catchers keep their GG Elite in the bag for years thanks to the enduring durability.
Snug Fit From Dual Core Protective Padding
Rawlings equips the GG Elite mitts with dual core foam padding to cushion your hand and reduce sting from errant pitches and foul tips. Strategically placed foam protects the vulnerable palm and finger areas from abrasion and impact.
Vented foam also promotes breathability during hot summer days. Meanwhile, Paratex palm padding adds another layer of shock-absorbing protection to dampen sting. Together, these technologies allow you to focus on the game rather than your stinging hand.
Quick Break-In With Tennessee Tanning Raw Hide Laces
The Tennessee Tanning rawhide laces give the GG Elite series a vintage, professional look while serving some important functional purposes. The laces help secure the shape of the pocket while allowing easy adjustments.
More importantly, the rawhide material softens and conforms faster than synthetic laces to accelerate break-in. The laces promote flex in key areas as you work the pocket.
While sturdy enough for heavy use, the laces give just enough to help loosen and shape the mitt to your exact preferences. This smart design element is key for quick break-in and custom performance.
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Unmatched Durability With Pro-Preferred Leather
When it comes to a catcher’s mitt, durability is king. After all, the rigors of a long season behind the plate will expose any design flaws or subpar materials. That’s why Rawlings only trusts pro-preferred leather for the GG Elite series.
Sourced from top steerhide and meticulously crafted, this leather achieves the perfect balance of lightweight feel and rugged durability. Even after months of action, it retains its shape while developing a seasoned look that only gets better with age.
The pro-preferred leather forms a snug, tailored pocket that swallows everything from fastballs to forkballs with ease. Its refined surface offers just the right amount of natural tack to secure pitches softly and smoothly.
While some gloves feel bulky and stiff right off the shelf, the GG Elite forms to your hand with minimal break-in required. You’ll enjoy quick, effortless closure and a Custom Fit within a just few practices.
Yet even after you’ve broken-in your mitt, the leather remains sturdy and structured. The durablehide pro palm lining and wool wrist strap also withstand heavy wear and reinforcement. No wonder it’s trusted by so many top college programs and pro backstops.
A Glove That Gets Better With Age
Some of the best catcher’s mitts are the ones passed down from season to season. That worn look and feel simply can’t be replicated in a new glove. Thankfully, the GG Elite’s premium materials age beautifully.
The refined pro-preferred leather continues to soften and mold to your hand precisely over time. Meanwhile, it develops a prized game-ready look, feel, and performance that only comes from extended use.
In a sense, the GG Elite just keeps getting more dialed in and trusted the more you use it. While the rugged leather remains intact, the pocket becomes more customized and visibly worn. It’s a badge of seasoning that truly separates the GG Elite.
Built To Last For Multiple Seasons
For most catcher’s mitts, one or two seasons of heavy use leads to blown-out laces, sagging pockets, and cracking palm leather. But the GG Elite is built to last thanks to premium materials and expert design.
The pro-preferred leather, durablehide lining, Tennessee Tanning laces, and dual core padding all work together to withstand season after season of extreme use. Expect many years of reliable performance before considering a replacement.
In fact, some catchers use their GG Elite for their entire college or pro career until it’s time to retire the ol’ gamer. This glove epitomizes the “buy it for life” mentality, saving you money in the long run.
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Breaking In Your New Mitt With Ease
Breaking in a new mitt can be a tedious chore. Stiff leather, rigid padding, and tight laces make those first practices with a new glove less than comfortable. Thankfully, the GG Elite is engineered to break-in quickly and easily.
The supple pro-preferred leather has a softer feel right off the shelf compared to lower quality leather. While structured, it forms and flexes to your hand faster than other gloves. Minimal effort is required to get that game-ready pocket and custom fit.
Focus on squeezing and flexing the pocket, while also working the hinge area. Use your fist to pound and shape the pocket to your exact preferences. Oils from your hand help break-in the leather faster.
Applying a quality leather conditioner also accelerates the process by penetrating deep to soften the material. Just a few practices is all it takes to get most GG Elite mitts ready for game action.
Tennessee Tanning Rawhide Laces Loosen Up Quickly
The Tennessee Tanning rawhide laces play a key role in the quick break-in of the GG Elite. Rawhide naturally softens and conforms quicker than synthetic laces to promote flex in key areas.
The interlaced lacing allows you to make micro-adjustments and finesse the pocket fit as the glove breaks-in. Snug up certain sections or loosen others for your ideal pocket shape and closure.
In just a short time, the rawhide laces mold to the contours of your hand for a customized fit. Less stiff and rigid than synthetic laces, rawhide accelerates the overall break-in process.
Minimal Effort For An Ideal Pocket
Forming the pocket requires some elbow grease with cheaper gloves. But the GG Elite shapes to your hand with minimal wear-in required. The pro-preferred leather pockets smoothly right where you want it.
Use your fist to pound key contact points and work the pocket open and closed. Focus your effort on flex points like the hinge and laces. Before you know it, the pocket will swallow balls cleanly.
The GG Elite gives you that coveted custom fit and action much faster than other mitts. Just wear it to practices and spend some extra time flexing and forming the pocket.
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Snug Fit From Dual Core Protective Padding
As a catcher, your hand takes a beating on a daily basis. Foul tips, errant pitches, and general wear and tear can leave your hand throbbing. That’s why Rawlings equips the GG Elite with dual core protective padding.
Strategically placed foam protects the most vulnerable areas of your hand from abrasion and impact. The padding absorbs sting and shock that would normally rattle your bones and joints.
Vented foam also enhances breathability on hot sunny days. Meanwhile, the Paratex palm padding adds another layer of shock-dampening performance. Together, these technologies provide complete cushioning.
Reduce Sting and Fatigue
After a long game crouched behind the plate, your hand pays the price. Without proper padding, bones ache and sting lingers for hours. But the GG Elite’s protective padding reduces discomfort and fatigue.
The dual core foam disperses energy and impact away from your hand to prevent joint pain and swelling. Less sting allows you to stay focused on calling the game rather than your smarting hand.
Padding across the heel, palm, and fingers safeguards the most vulnerable areas from taking the brunt of fouls off the knuckles or palms. The difference is noticeable compared to cheaper gloves.
Play With More Confidence
When your hand is protected, you can play with more confidence and aggressiveness. Instead of shying away from inside pitches, you can stick your hand in the batter’s box without fear.
The padding gives you the assurance to snag any wild pitch or high heater. You won’t hesitate to lay out for that skimming foul pop up.
The GG Elite provides full coverage padding without restricting movement or feel. Take charge behind the dish knowing your hand is guarded.
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Reduced Sting With Paratex Palm Padding
One area that takes constant abuse for catchers is the palm. Batting back pitched balls and absorbing foul tips rattles your palm and fingers. Rawlings equips the GG Elite with Paratex palm padding to reduce sting.
This advanced foam disperses energy and vibration away from your hand. The padding sits right where you need it most to protect the sensitive palm area from impact and abrasion.
Made from durable yet flexible rubberized material, Paratex stands up to heavy use without breaking down. It retains its shock-absorbing performance all season long.
Play Pain-Free
After a long game catching heaters and blocking pitches in the dirt, your palm and fingers ache. But the Paratex palm padding helps take the pain out of catching.
The responsive foam absorbs sting when balls bang off your palm on cross-ups. When you stab down to block that bouncer, Paratex cushions and protects your hand.
Less sting means you can stay focused on the game rather than your smarting hand. Let the padding do its job so you can do yours.
Responsive Protection That Lasts
Some foam padding in cheaper gloves quickly compresses and breaks down over time. But Paratex retains its responsive protection all season thanks to the innovative rubberized material.
The padding springs back after impact to deliver durable shock absorption right where you need it most. Say goodbye to numb, stinging palms that distract from performance.
Paratex works seamlessly with the dual core padding to handle repeated impact. Together, these technologies provide complete cushioning game after game.
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Quick Break-In With Tennessee Tanning Raw Hide Laces
One of the keys to fast break-in with the GG Elite is the Tennessee Tanning rawhide laces. Unlike stiff synthetic laces, rawhide naturally softens and molds quicker to promote flex.
The interlaced lacing system allows you to make micro-adjustments as the glove breaks-in. Snug up certain sections while loosening others to finesse that custom fit.
Within just a few practices, the rawhide laces form perfectly to your hand contours. Less rigid than synthetic laces, they accelerate the overall break-in process.
Vintage Style Meets Modern Performance
Rawlings chose the Tennessee Tanning rawhide laces for their timeless, vintage look and enhanced performance. The leather laces give the GG Elite a pro-quality design that pops.
But more than just looks, the rawhide improves flex, feel, and overall break-in speed. Form and function in perfect harmony.
The burnished leather laces also provide a touch of grip and tackiness for added control. Rawlings went the extra mile with this detail.
Fast Break-In You Can Feel
From the first time you slip the GG Elite on, the rawhide laces make a difference you can actually feel. The laces mold and shape to your exact hand size quickly.
Focus your break-in efforts on working the lace areas, and you’ll notice the glove loosen up faster there first. The soft leather promotes closing the glove with less effort.
In no time, the laces form the ideal contours unique to your hand. Break-in that used to take weeks now takes just days.
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Superior Grip And Control With Modified Trapeze Web
The web design plays a critical role in any catcher’s mitt performance. After testing various web patterns, Rawlings chose a modified trapeze web for the GG Elite series.
This tighter web promotes quick, accurate ball transfer from glove to throwing hand. The customized trapeze pattern also provides strength and structure to the mitt pocket.
Made from durable lacing, the modified trapeze web achieves the ideal tension to form clean pockets and facilitate smooth closure.
Lightning-Quick Ball Transfer
With runners on base, you need to get rid of the ball in a hurry. The GG Elite’s modified trapeze web allows the fastest transfer possible.
As soon as the ball sticks in the pocket, simply flip your wrist and let the ball eject out the lower part of the web. No fumbling or awkward maneuvering.
The tight web creates just enough tension so the ball pops right into your throwing hand. Quicker transfers mean better chances of throwing out stealing runners.
Superior Grip For More Control
The tighter web pattern also enhances grip and control. Balls stick firmly yet release smoothly without getting lost in excess webbing.
Whether catching high heaters or digging pitches in the dirt, you can trust the web to secure the ball every time. No more popping out of the web on foul tips.
The GG Elite gives you the control and confidence to handle any pitch called. Focus on your technique rather than worrying about losing balls.
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Rely On A Pro-Inspired Shape And Size
Finding a mitt with the perfect shape and size for your hand is critical for performance. After consulting with pro players, Rawlings crafted the GG Elite with an optimized pattern.
The pro-inspired shape contours perfectly to your hand right off the shelf. No more squeezed fingers or awkward hand positioning.
With a 34-inch circumference, the mitt is sized just right to swallow balls without being overly bulky or restrictive. The shape and dimensions were purposefully crafted.
Ideal Contours For Comfort
Many stock gloves feature generic, rounded shapes that don’t properly fit your hand. But the GG Elite is shaped to contour your fingers and palm.
No more squeezed ring and pinky fingers that go numb. No more curled fingers that limit motion. Just a natural, relaxed hand position that maximizes comfort.
The GG Elite achieves an ideal shape by extending the pocket and tapering the index finger stall ever-so-slightly. Pure catching comfort.
Perfectly Sized For Control
With a mitt that’s too small or large, you sacrifice control. But at 34 inches, the GG Elite hits the catchers’ mitt sweet spot.
No excess bulk to hinder quick exchanges, yet big enough to swallow baseballs with room to spare. Balls stick confidently in the pocket.
From your outstretched fingertips to the edge of the pocket, the size promotes smooth closure and full hand extension.
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Approved By The Game’s Best Backstops
The best way to judge a catcher’s mitt is by those who use it most. That’s why Rawlings relies heavily on feedback from pro players when designing the GG Elite.
By consulting elite catchers on preferred features and incorporating their real-world insights, Rawlings ensures the GG Elite meets the demands of the game’s top backstops.
From collegiate standouts to MLB veterans, the consensus is clear – the GG Elite delivers the perfect blend of control, protection, and durability.
Big League Tested & Approved
Before ever hitting the shelves, early GG Elite prototypes are tested by MLB catchers for months. Their feedback helps fine-tune the design.
By the time the mitt reaches production, all the kinks have been worked out. It’s ready to perform flawlessly on the big stage.
When your gear passes inspection by the game’s best backstops, you know it’s built for elite performance. Consider the GG Elite MLB tested and approved.
Trusted By The Next Generation
It’s not just the pros who rely on the GG Elite. The next wave of top catchers trust it as well.
From travel ball to college, the GG Elite is the choice of many top prospects behind the plate thanks to its pro-level quality.
Young catchers appreciate the quick break-in time, rugged durability, and custom fit. They recognize this is the glove used by the game’s top players.
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Trusted By College Programs Nationwide
From small schools to powerhouse programs, college teams across the nation trust the GG Elite. For top NCAA backstops, it’s their mitt of choice.
College coaches recognize the quick break-in time allows catchers to get game ready faster. The mitt holds up to the rigors of heavy use season after season.
And the pro-quality materials and construction give catchers the tools to develop their skills behind the plate at a high level.
Accelerated Development in College
For catchers entering college, those first few seasons represent crucial development years. Having pro-level gear can accelerate their progress.
The GG Elite allows catchers to focus on improving their mechanics rather than fighting their equipment. It forms to their hand faster, reducing the learning curve.
Coaches trust the GG Elite to help catchers reach their full potential those first couple years of reps and experience.
Pro-Quality Gear for Big Performances
In the biggest college games, you need equipment designed for elite performance. Rivalry games, tournaments, and playoffs demand your best.
While lower tier gloves may falter under pressure, the GG Elite gets better. It’s designed for excellence on big stages.
From SEC powerhouses to small college underdogs, GG Elite catchers deliver when it matters most. It’s the choice for clutch college performers.
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Designed For Elite Performance At All Levels
While labeled an “elite” series, the GG Elite is built to perform for catchers at every level. From youth leagues to college and up, it’s the choice for backstops pushing their game to the next level.
Younger catchers appreciate the quick break-in time and pro-inspired design elements. More advanced catchers rely on the mitt for its rugged durability season after season.
Optimized for elite catchers yet accessible for all, the GG Elite helps backstops maximize their abilities behind the dish at any level.
Ready For Young Catcher’s Development
For young catchers whose skills are still developing, the GG Elite provides the tools to accelerate their progress.
The mitt breaks-in fast so young players can focus on proper mechanics versus fighting stiff leather. The shaping occurs naturally as they gain reps.
With pro-level protection and quality, budding backstops gain confidence to block balls, frame pitches, and control the run game.
Withstands Heavy Use
While designed for elite players, the GG Elite’s durability makes it ideal for beginners as well who are tough on equipment.
The rugged full-grain leather, double laces, and padded palm hold up to repeated use by young catchers perfecting their skills.
Growing catchers can rely on the mitt for multiple seasons as their hand-eye skills develop. It’s built strong for long-term use.
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Go For Gold With Your Glove Choice
When selecting your catcher’s mitt, don’t settle for second best. Go for the gold standard – the Rawlings GG Elite Series.
As the premier glove in the iconic Gold Glove line, the GG Elite represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship, quality, and performance.
Why trust your hand to a lesser mitt? Choose the one designed for elite backstops and gain an edge behind the plate.
Invest in Premium Quality
With cheaper gloves, you sacrifice quality to save a quick buck. But those cost savings vanish when the mitt falls apart prematurely.
The GG Elite may cost more upfront, but it outperforms budget options over the long haul. Consider it an investment in premium gear.
Treat your hand to pro-level protection and worry-free durability season after season. Go for the gold standard.
Step Up Your Game
Great gear gives you the confidence and tools to elevate your performance. The GG Elite allows you to step up your catching game.
Quick break-in and optimized shape let you focus on developing skills versus fighting your mitt. Play at the highest level with your equipment.
Behind elite gear lies elite potential. Unlock yours with the GG Elite advantage at your fingertips.
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Make The Investment In Yourself
When purchasing gear, it’s tempting to always go cheap. But investing in quality equipment like the GG Elite is an investment in yourself.
Pro-level gear allows you to perform at your peak. Why hinder your development with subpar mitts that cause bad habits?
The GG Elite might cost more up front, but it eliminates wasted money on replacements. And its performance boost is priceless.
Save Money Over Time
Paying more for the GG Elite now saves you money in the long run. Instead of replacing cheaper gloves every season, this mitt will last years.
Factor in the cost savings on future replacements, and the GG Elite becomes a bargain. Focus your dollars on one quality glove that goes the distance.
View it as a long-term investment in your catching career. The dividends will be clear behind the dish.
Invest in Your Development
More important than cost savings, the GG Elite represents an investment in reaching your potential. Give yourself every tool to succeed.
Work towards your goals with pro-level gear designed for premium performance, not basic entry-level mitts.
Trust your development behind the plate to the GG Elite. When you invest in yourself, success will follow.
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Join The Greats With This All-Star Mitt
All the great ones rely on it. Yogi Berra. Johnny Bench. Mike Piazza. They all trusted Rawlings gear behind the dish.
Continue the legacy by strapping on the GG Elite. Wield the same mitt trusted by the game’s top backstops across generations.
Gain an instant connection to the great catchers of the past who donned Rawlings mitts and masks. Be part of the brotherhood.
Follow in Their Footsteps
Legendary catchers paved the way with Rawlings equipment through the decades. Now it’s your turn to carve out a legacy.
Channel the winning spirit of greats like Roy Campanella and Carlton Fisk. Let their achievements inspire you.
With the GG Elite on your hand, you’re continuing the Rawlings catching tradition. Make your mark next.
Your Ticket to the Bigs
Before they were All-Stars, they were amateurs with big dreams just like you. Give yourself pro tools.
Start down the path of those legendary backstops by developing your skills with the GG Elite today.
With hard work and the right gear, who knows? You may join those catching greats one day in Cooperstown.
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Play Like A Champion Behind The Dish
As a catcher, your mitt is your most important piece of equipment. It’s your partner in crime, your trusty sidekick. A good catcher’s mitt can be the difference between nabbing a runner trying to steal and letting him get to second safely. It can turn a wild pitch into a firmly caught third strike. Simply put, having the right mitt brings out the best in any backstop.
So if you’re serious about playing championship-caliber defense behind the plate, you need a mitt that’s up to the task. That’s where the Rawlings GG Elite Catchers Mitt comes in. This pro-level mitt was designed with Gold Glove-winning defense in mind. Everything about it, from the leather to the shape to the padding, is optimized for helping skilled catchers make the spectacular look routine.
Supple Pro Grade Leather
Let’s start with the leather. The GG Elite uses specially tanned pro-grade cowhide that breaks in nicely while remaining durable enough for heavy daily use. It offers the ideal combination of flexibility right off the shelf and strength over the long haul. The supple leather and pre-curved shape allow you to close your mitt smoothly around balls to snag pitches across the corners. At the same time, the leather retains its structure beautifully even after you’ve put in work breaking this mitt in.
Strategic Palm and Finger Padding
In addition to great leather, this mitt utilizes targeted padding in key areas like the palm and index finger to improve your catching experience. The foam padding absorbs sting on those sharp breaking balls, reducing fatigue and soreness over the course of a game. The padded palm also reinforces the pocket, helping you frame pitches with a soft but secure glove-to-ball feel. And the padded finger stalls protect your digits from foul tips and other backstop hazards.
Pro-Inspired Shape
The GG Elite features a pro-style closed web and extended palm for maximum coverage. Scooping those dirt-eating changeups and corralling wild pitches in the dirt becomes much easier with this shape. This mitt forms a large, deep pocket without restricting wrist movement – you’ll have no problem catching low or high heat while maintaining your throwing release. Itsindexing also feels fantastic, from the pinky-to-index stagger in the fingers to the wide, contoured heel.
Overall, the size strikes a nice balance between a large target zone and lightweight feel. At 32 inches, it’s sized right for older youth and adult catchers. Despite its roomy shape, the pro-grade leather keeps weight down for reduced hand fatigue.
Serious Durability
Rawlings didn’t cut any corners in the GG Elite’s construction. From premium steerhide to high-end laces and binding, every component was built to withstand season after season of action behind the dish. The durable leather shell maintains its integrity beautifully even after you’ve logged plenty of innings. And the heavy-duty palm lining prevents premature wearing in vital areas like around the base of the thumb and index finger. Where lesser mitts might fail, this one keeps going strong.
The Feel of a Well-Oiled Machine
From first glance, you can see the GG Elite is a premium piece of catching equipment. But you can’t fully appreciate it until you slip it on and close it around a few warm-up tosses. That’s when the meticulous design really shines through. This mitt just feels right from day one thanks to Rawlings’ expert craftsmanship.
The carefully engineered shape guides your hands into proper catching position intuitively. Generous padding takes the bite out of snagging heaters while still allowing you to feel and control each pitch. Quick break-in time means you’ll be making the web sing almost immediately. And the overall comfort will having you begging your pitcher for just a few more pitches before calling it a day.
A Mitt Worthy of a Gold Glover
Elite-level gear for elite-level defense. That’s what the Rawlings GG Elite Catchers Mitt represents. This pro-quality mitt gives serious backstops the tools needed to bring home some leather of their own. From youth to college and beyond, it’s built to help catchers succeed at the highest levels. The GG stamp of approval means you can pursue greatness with confidence. Just add your own dedication and will to win, and enjoy the benefits of playing like a champion behind the dish!