Take this seriously

[Unregistered]

If your child suffered brain damage then potentially you would be spear heading a cause that would limit the soccer development of all kids in their honor. However, the likelihood is slim. Would you also limit snowboarding and dirt bike racing? Maybe we could prevent speeds over a certain amount and limit jumps to under 2 ft. I wasn't the poster of the comment but I get what they are saying. This is not an epidemic. If it happens to your kid then it is devastating. Life is meant to be lived and there are inherent risks. I would not advocate placing people in harms way just for the sake of it. On the other hand I would hate to think of all the rules and regulations and big debbie downer issues that could be taken with any and every activity that has ever been fun.

Be a parent. If you see the coach of your team doing something that you believe is dangerous to your child then address it. I will do the same.

I agree. My son was called retard and took his off. I told him the next time it came off that his mamma was coming out there to pop him in the head or alternatively do belly dancing. And I do have a belly.

[Unregistered]

I agree. My son was called retard and took his off. I told him the next time it came off that his mamma was coming out there to pop him in the head or alternatively do belly dancing. And I do have a belly.

LOL I'll have to remember the belly dancing because I think that would make my kids think twice ...LOL

[Unregistered]

Let's Review

Here is what we know about concussions:
Even mild concussions affect cognitive abilities.

Once a person suffers a concussion they are prone to get others.

Multiple concussions can lead to depression and permanently alter a person’s personality and cognitive abilities.

Here is what we know about soccer and concussions:
The single leading cause of concussions is heads getting bumped by other heads and body parts usually attempting to head the ball.

The next leading cause is improper or heading.

Even with proper technique a player attempting a header must have enough neck strength to power through the ball at impact.

Here is what we know about preventing concussions:
Head gear will not prevent concussions but does reduce the associated injuries from contact with the head.

Proper heading technique reduces the instances of concussion.

Strengthening neck muscles reduces the instances where the direction of the skull is altered and the brain slams into it resulting in a concussion.

Baring heading of punts at younger ages will reduce BOTH the number of head to head concussions and the number of ball related concussions.

Limiting the practice of headers and providing lighter balls for header practice are commonsense measures to protect our kids brain.

In summary we do not have to wrap our kids in bubble wrap to protect them but we should be taking common sense steps to adjust the game for the age, skills and abilities of our children to prevent unnecessary injuries that could last a life time!