Hell, if it weren't so damn expensive I'd be okay with DD playing hockey.
Every time that DH complains that I get a leotard for DDs for their gymnastics/ballet, I show him one of teh hockey gear bags that kids walk around with They need SO much stuff for that!
It has also helped him make new friends and gain confidence in himself . Its been amazing for my younger son with a severe anxiety disorder...the only time he's fully happy and "free with himself" out in public is when he's playing a hockey game.
That is wonderful, and one of the reasons I am wavering in my stance. DS has done so well in lacrosse, and it is great to see him build confidence in a team sport. I don't think it necessarily needs to be football, but I'm not sure how much safer other options are (soccer/hockey/lacrosse/etc). The time aspect is still an issue.
Post by quickstepstar on Apr 10, 2014 10:18:11 GMT -5
As far a football, I don't know what I think... Honestly I want to say I wouldn't allow football, but my girls do gymnastics, which is pretty dangerous. Maybe he will play for a bit and then change his mind? Maybe at least if he starts now, he would avoid tackle until he gets better?
This has been an ongoing debate in the jerky household for a few years now, with me in the firm "NO" camp. It's difficult for me to separate because I know a little too much about CTE and second impact syndrome, etc., etc., etc. I lecture about it and then have to come home and listen to DS beg to play. Here are my thoughts, take them or leave them .
Football (WITH the proper safety precautions) is no more dangerous than many other sports. Girls soccer actually has the highest incidence of concussion due to weak neck muscles/improper heading and all that good stuff. So, if played correctly, the risk is no higher than many other sports.
That being said, for me, these are my rules.
1. We always buy DS his own helmet. Often the equipment they get from school and other leagues are not safety tested and/or are reconditioned without being tested.
2. He plays at the appropriate weight class and never plays "up" or "down."
3. He does not start tackle until grade 5 - at the absolute earliest. There are flag leagues through high school here but the school starts tackle in grade five.
4. I have to be confident the coaches are aware of proper safety protocols and procedures. Yes, I know this makes me a pain in the ass (and I'm admittedly "breezy" about most things) but too damn bad. I feel the same way about coaches who do static stretching with the teams prior to a practice or game. At best, it doesn't do a damn thing to help them prior to the game and at worst, it can increase the risk of injury.
5. One concussion and we reevaluate.
That was really long, yikes!! A glass of wine to all who made it though - or a martini!
This is good advice. I think we have to buy the helmets and they provide the pads.
Post by barefootcontessa on Apr 10, 2014 12:42:41 GMT -5
I am confused by the post. Do you only want moms who are okay with it to reply? My DH and I were on the fence leaning towards no and then we watch the Frontline documentary on the NFL which included a section about youth playing contact sports.