70-200 never shoot weekend gymnastics quite often no problem. Weekend cheer championship well 2 problems couldn't hold it up for the last few teams so back up shooter stepped in, Big problem was not being able to lift the after shoot beer.

I do use a monopod for my 400 2.8
Mike

shoot all the grandkids sports events,, if outside for soccer or baseball and I am standing will not use but if inside and setting for basketball or volleyball I will use,, been using one for so many years that I find it is not a problem following my subjects,, guess it is what ya get use too,,

Derry

Try removing the collar from your 70-200mm f2.8 lens, it will make it a touch lighter and more comfortable to hold.

I have never used a monopod with the 70-200 IS when shooting sports, I just feel that it gets in the way. When using my 500mm during a recent Nascar race I found it was also much easier to handhold, than to use a monopod with it. But I was only using it 25% of the race which helped.