Wednesday, November 25, 2015

There has been countless research, discussion, and debate over the role concussions play in contact sports and their effects on athletes, especially young athletes.

The United States Soccer Federation recently made a huge rule change in attempt to reduce concussions and help ease parents’ worry.

The new policy bans players age 10 and younger from heading the ball and reducing headers in practice for athletes age 11 to 13. While the new rules are only mandatory for U.S. Soccer youth leagues and teams, the rules are recommended for all soccer associations and programs across the country.

CAL Sports Academy soccer coach, Jess Casper, always airs on the side of caution when it comes to CAL’s athletes and concussions.

“I ask players about headaches or any common symptoms experienced with concussions after heading the ball or taking any type of hit to the head and constantly monitor them,” Casper said.

As a player on the D1 level, headers were a huge part of Coach Jess’ game. While the rule changes will help reduce concussions and increase safety, it will also impact the way the game is played.

“I couldn’t imagine playing the game without it. Playing in the center midfield and center defense, winning and heading the ball out of the air was a big part of the game for me. The ban is going to completely change the game and it will be very interesting to see how it all plays out,” Coach Jess said.

This new policy is a step in the right direction but it doesn’t completely negate the risk of concussions.

“Before the ban, I taught kids the proper heading form; to keep their eyes open and head the ball with their forehead not the top of their head,” Coach Jess said. “I think more education on concussions and their symptoms, and the athlete being honest and knowing when they are ready to return to their sport after concussions is the bigger issue. More awareness is key.”

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