CBS News reports that the American Academy of Pediatrics has issued new guidelines for youth football players in an attempt to promote head safety.
More than a million American kids currently play youth football, and the recommendations include a zero tolerance policy for headfirst hits. The suggestions come after a Tennessee football player was critically injured during a high school game in October. The teen suffered severe head trauma following a play.
In addition to the zero tolerance policy, the agency recommends that schools and/or sports programs have athletic trainers on the sidelines of games and offer non-tackle football competitions as an alternative for kids who wish to play without sustaining hits.
“There’s too many head-to-head hits and leading with the head, known as spearing — that’s been against the rules since 1976 and for some reason referees and coaches have gotten away from enforcing that rule,” said Dr. Greg Landry, with the AAP, according to CBS News.
The AAP said it has discovered that head injuries are often the result of illegal tackling techniques. Many schools have said they support the recommendations.
HEAD AND BRAIN INJURIES CAN LEAD TO A LIFETIME OF MEDICAL TREATMENT
Unfortunately, many head and brain injuries sustained by football players can lead to expensive and extensive medical treatment. These injuries are often some of the most difficult for victims and family members to cope with, as they can result in cognitive, sensory, emotional and physical trauma.
If your loved one has sustained a brain injury playing a sport, talk to our Nashville injury attorney about your legal rights. You may be able to file a lawsuit against the parties that contributed to the injury including the agency responsible for maintaining the game and/or any defective equipment manufacturers.
You can reach our Nashville brain injury attorney by clicking on the live chat option on this page or by calling (615) 866-3938.
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
Source: https://cbsnews.com/news/american-academy-of-pediatrics-releases-new-guidelines-youth-football/