Footwork, and the NSCAA

Well tonight was better, but I am still relying on diving more than I should.  I am focussing on improving my footwork first and foremost.  As tonight went on, it did get better, but I still let in a few I was not happy with.  Andy Gruenebaum (goalkeeper for the Crew) did our session tonight.  He was very positive, and really knows his technique.  I will continue to work hard, and hopefully will show some real improve ment next week.

On to the convention.  It was much larger than I thought it would be.  The first night was insane.  It seemed like I spoke to hundreds of people about Sells and Quik Hands, which was fantastic.  It gave me an opportunity to meet lots of folks in the industry, and talk about Goalkeeping Products, and Goalkeeping in general.  The vast majority of the folks I met were very knowledgeable and freindly.  I have to say the Nike/Brine booths were the exception. No one in the Nike booth seemed to interested in the products themselves, and focused on the marketing behind the products.  The Brine rep tried real hard, but really did not seem to have any idea about the market, or the products outside of Brine. 

The Sondico rep spoke to Vic and I for about an hour, and really seemed interested in our opinions.  It was great to see them back in the game.  I had a great raport with them in the past, and I think it will be promissing in the future. I was also impressed with the knowledge at the Reusch, and Reebok booths as well.  I did not like some of the design aspects of the higher end reebok, or reusch, but the reps explained the reasoning behind the designs, and it seemed like they did their research.  Even though I did not like the Uhlsport line, they were very friendly, and it was really good to see Uhlsport back in the states after a long abscence.  I should clarify that the only Uhls I did not like were the two High end Akkurat gloves, the rest were well built, and felt very good.  Their new hard ground glove was very impressive, although a bit expensive.

Other products that caught my eye were some of the boots.  Kelme, Umbro, Puma, Adidas, Diadora, Joma, all had some clean simple, K leather, and Calf leather designs that were quite appealing.  They all also had a bunch of plasitc looking boots that I would avoid like the plague. 

Overall it was a fantastic experience.  I have to thank Jeff Duback at Sells USA, and Dieter Thellman of Quik Hands for having me, and taking good care of me while I was there.  It was great to meet OldUS, and I had a great time hanging out with him, and hope to do it again next year. If you get an opportunity to go, do not pass it up.

Cheers,

Greg