As autumn rolls in, discussions about sports often arise in families. Every year, my partner and I find ourselves in a recurring debate with our children about playing football. They eagerly request to join a team, and we respond with a firm “no.” The whining ensues, but we remain resolute in our decision. This cycle can be draining, yet we stand by our convictions regarding football.
Initially, I was uncertain about our ban on football. When my son was in first grade, he enjoyed flag football, and in second grade, I hesitantly allowed him to try tackle football, motivated by the desire to avoid being labeled a “Dream Destroyer.” Despite his age of eight, he was convinced that playing football was his pathway to the NFL.
Our conversations usually followed a predictable script: I would remind him of the slim chances of making it to the NFL, while he insisted that practice was essential. His emotional responses often left me conflicted. I avoided giving him a definitive answer, secretly wishing to say “absolutely not.”
At that time, I relied on my instincts for decision-making, but the complexities surrounding football left me uncertain. Five years ago, emerging research highlighted the dangers of football, yet opinions varied on the age and extent of the risks. While I had previously made choices contrary to expert advice in areas like breastfeeding and screen time, football posed a unique dilemma that I wasn’t prepared for. It raised numerous questions: Would I also restrict hockey, skiing, or climbing? How could I reconcile our family’s stance with others who permitted their children to play? Would we be hypocrites for enjoying college football while denying our kids the same opportunity? Ultimately, I relented and allowed my son to play, but thankfully, he chose not to continue.
Fast forward to today, my stance on football has shifted dramatically. My conviction now is unwavering—there is no chance my children will play football.
What Changed?
The evidence surrounding football’s dangers has become increasingly compelling. A recent study in the Annals of Neurology revealed that the risk of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease, correlates more with the years played than with the number of concussions sustained. Research from Boston University found that the likelihood of developing CTE doubles for every 2.6 years of football participation. For example, a child who starts tackle football at age five faces ten times the risk of CTE compared to a peer who begins at age fourteen.
Further studies published in the New York Times corroborate this, noting that former players with CTE face an increased risk of the disease’s severe forms for every 5.3 years spent playing. Additionally, research from Seattle Children’s Research Institute indicates that concussion rates among children aged 5-14 are higher than previously understood, with an alarming 5% sustaining a concussion each season.
As a result of these findings, many parents are opting out of football for their children, and societal attitudes toward youth football are shifting. A public service announcement from the Concussion Legacy Foundation likened the long-term consequences of football to the dangers of smoking. Their “Tackle Can Wait” campaign, initiated by the daughters of NFL players who succumbed to CTE, advocates for delaying tackle football until at least age 14 to mitigate CTE risks. While 14 is not a definitive age, research suggests that brain injuries sustained before age 12 can hinder recovery.
Despite these insights, some parents still permit their children to play football, citing the benefits of team sports. There are indeed numerous other sports that carry significantly lower risks for severe injuries and brain trauma. Others argue that all sports involve some risk, which is true; however, the nature of brain injuries is fundamentally different from other injuries, such as sprains or bruises.
While some believe that football is becoming safer due to rule changes and better coaching techniques, head injuries continue to occur, even during seemingly safe plays. Just this week, a player from the Green Bay Packers was injured during what was classified as a “clean” tackle.
Additionally, there are parents who reason that since risks are inherent in life, children should pursue their passions. I empathize with this perspective; I once felt the same when labeled a Dream Destroyer myself. However, as guardians, we must prioritize our children’s safety while allowing them to explore their interests.
To this end, options like flag football or TackleBar—a safer alternative where players wear traditional gear with removable foam bars to promote safer tackling—are available. TackleBar has been shown to be seven times safer than conventional football.
Ultimately, we can either allow our children to wait until they are older or maintain our firm “no.” While it can be challenging to uphold this stance, it becomes easier with time, even when met with resistance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the risks associated with football is essential for parents navigating these choices. The evidence suggests a need for caution when it comes to youth football participation.
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Summary
This article discusses the growing concerns surrounding the safety of youth football, particularly regarding the risks of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) associated with early participation. With increasing evidence linking years of play to heightened risks, many parents are reconsidering their children’s involvement in the sport. Alternatives like flag football and TackleBar are recommended, emphasizing the need for caution and informed decision-making when it comes to youth sports.
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