We tell the story of Spencer Cropper, a high school Quarterback who had his career cut short due to multiple concussions. We discuss the safety concerns relating to high school and youth Football… are the rules safe enough for kids? WE dive into The rules including targeting, and heads up Football.
Spencer was a high school quarterback, who won the championship his senior year, which was his first year as a starter. During this season however, he suffered multiple concussions. Also, throughout his other sports such as hockey growing up Spencer suffered many concussions. He claims he had around 10.
Concussions happen to 5% of youth Football players, (according to study by The University of Washington)
This could be drastically connected to Helmet safety… A study by everyday health states that 3 out of 4 Youth Football players have an improperly fitting helmet. This was an issue for Spencer Cropper. In the OFSAA championship game, he suffered a concussion from his head hitting the ground during a tackle. However, Spencer wore a pump helmet, where you use an air pump to inflate the pads on the inside. One of these pads was popped, which created much less cushioning for Spencer.
Even with the high numbers of concussion, Football has had efforts to help the safety of the game starting off with heads up Football. It is a way to tackle without lowering your head into contact. Coaches now train their players to tackle using that technique.
Even with all these Football can still be dangerous for youth, which is why teams need to invest in good equipment, and keep a close eye on their players.
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