Many people believe the game of football is dangerous and it's nothing but people running into each other, but it's not like that at all. Yes, it's very physical game, but there are certain precautions and training that goes into learning how to play football. Most players in college and in the NFL have been playing since they were young, meaning that they have been learning how to play the game while learning the proper techniques so they can play the game as safe as possible. Something that I learned as a player is that if you are scared, timid or unsure of what to do, then most likely you are the most dangerous person on the field. The scared, timid or unsure player is the player that probably doesn't understand the proper techniques or what to do so when they engage with another player something bad can happen.
As a untrained viewer it can look scary seeing grown men in pads and helmets hitting each other with full force. But you must realize that they were trained, and if they make it professionally, then they probably have been doing things right. The NFL see's training the youth as one of their top priorities, so they made a program call "Heads Up Football." "Heads Up Football" refers to the term of tackling with your head up, to prevent head and neck injuries. This video was made by the Heads Up program and was designed for all ages. Enjoy!
One of the biggest things is safety, and that's why there is always new equipment coming out. Scientist create, design, and improve equipment for safety and athletic purposes; whether it's the newest model in gloves that gives the receiver padding while keeping their hands cool or the newest helmet that absorb shock to reduce concussions. Even the uniforms in the NFL have a purpose. Remember how the jerseys use to be loose on the players many years ago, and now they seem to be tighter than ever? Well this is done so players aren't pulled dangerously by their jerseys while the material keeps them cool. The photo below is a example of how the uniforms look today.
Even with understanding of proper technique and training some of the hits we see in the audience are really freaky! Good to know that they're being trained though!
ReplyDeleteHow do you feel about when kids start playing football in high school? I had a friend that did not play any football when he was younger. then he went out our sophomore year in high school and he got hurt all the time.
ReplyDeleteHey Matt, sorry for the extremely late reply I don't know what happened to the comment I sent you. But to answer your question, I think that when players begin their career in high school that they have to get the basics and techniques down before games. They should probably work out with the team the spring and summer before the season while learning how to play and while leaning the game itself. You must train until it is natural. One of the most important things is if you are unsure of how to do something ask a coach!
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