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High school football faces growing scrutiny regarding head injuries and their long-term effects. Repetitive blows to the head, even without diagnosed concussions, can lead to CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy). CTE is a degenerative brain disease linked to memory loss, depression, and dementia.
CTE and head injuries raise concerns about the safety of football at the high school level.
Researchers at Boston University have found high rates of CTE in studying the autopsies of professional football players. Examples such as Tua Tagovulovia and Russel Gage being rushed off the field demonstrate how serious this is at a professional level.
While data is limited on high school players because of CTE’s delayed symptoms; research shows a high rate of concussions in the sport. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that football accounts for the most concussions among high school athletes.
Furthermore, high school sports do not have as much protection or technology as the NFL does, such as helmets with the best shock absorption. Having stricter rules to limit head injuries and improved detection can help lower concussion stats. Some states have even implemented restrictions on heading the ball or contact drills, while others mandate removing players from competition after a suspected concussion.
Balancing safety with having fun is a challenge, but not impossible. Growing awareness of the potential consequences of head injuries is ensuring a safer playing environment for young athletes.
