[onewhippedpuppy]

Originally Posted by Chocaholic

Onehippedpuppy is out if his league on this one. I know the Chief of Neurology at the Univ of Florida and worked with him and his staff on the implementation of two 3T MR's for sole purpose of tracking functional effects of concussion on football players. Long term clinical/functional damage is being assessed and it's not pretty. Truly amazes me how we place the long term health of kids behind the football insanity in this country.

My 190 lb 6'2" 15 year old is playing tennis 5 days a week and loves it. Sure, he could injure a tendon or damage a knee...but that is not brain damage. No comparison.

I'm always happy to learn, it's one of the reasons why I hang out here.

I don't deny that there is a risk. But there's risk involved in most things worthwhile. I should have been dead or in jail about 100 times over in high school, most of which I attribute to not belonging to or being involved in an activity(s) that occupied my time and gave me a sense of purpose and belonging. There are many activities that fit that bill, everything from drama to tennis to football. But I'm sure you'll agree that you can't choose what your child will be passionate about. I believe that the good of team sports drastically outweighs the bad, even for football.

I would also, btw, make the same argument if one of my children chose to join the military. I believe there is significant good to be found by serving your nation, even considering the risks of doing so.