Robert Vito, the founder and CEO of Unequal Technologies in Glen Mills, has invented a technology that makes sports safer by protecting young players from Commotio Cordis, one of the top killers in youth sports, writes Alicia Vitarelli for 6ABC.

Vito has created a small, foam-like product that can mitigate direct strikes to the heart by a hand, ball, or stick.

“Nobody should die playing catch,” he said.

The technology was inspired by a chat Vito had after class with one of his students at Penn State.

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He asked, “Professor, what if you could make bulletproof vests lighter, thinner, and more flexible?”

Soon after, he started developing the technology, and professional teams started paying attention.

“We got a call from the Eagles and Mike Vick injured his sternum,” said Vito. “They said can you take some of that military-grade protection and build him a chest protector.”

In response, Vito created a full line of protection gear, and did not stop at sports. The Vatican Swiss Guard has since asked for wearable body armor for Pope Francis, while Tom Cruise invited him to London to outfit him and his stunt team.

Read more about Robert Vito and Unequal Technologies at 6ABC by clicking here.

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