• Each coach undergoes certified training provided by USA Football, which covers proper tackling technique from all angles.
  • Coaches also undergo training to effectively diagnose CTE and to evaluate a player's return to play https://www.usafootball.com/coach-certification

• Outdated terminology and unsafe tackling drills such as Nut Crackers, Bull in the Ring, "Bite the Ball," and Neck/Crown tackling are no longer utilized in our league.

• By implementing these measures, we can help reduce the risk of CTE and promote a safer playing environment for our athletes.

• We are committed to ongoing education and staying abreast of new scientific findings as they emerge, continuously evolving our approach based on the latest data.

• Believe it or not, your role in reducing CTE is just as important as it is for our coaches. Education, concussion awareness, proper equipment checks and promote rest and recovery after injuries.
• Engaging in supportive research is crucial in the efforts to reduce CTE. While there are indeed alarming stories that may evoke fear, it's important to note that such incidents span various sports. Moreover, many testimonies predate the implementation of rule and technique modifications. 
• We also encourage parents to explore additional equipment options that may help reduce the risk of CTE for their children, ensuring they have the best possible protection on the field.

R. Robert Franks, DO, FAOASM

For concussion prevention, NFL players have utilized improved helmets as well as mouthguards; in terms of concussion prevention products and safety gear, football players generally utilize considerably more equipment than concussion prevention in soccer, where concussions are likewise a serious concern.

But is protective equipment effective enough to protect players from concussions and the risk of CTE?

Unfortunately, the answer is no. While helmets and other protective equipment can prevent more traumatic head injuries, such as skull fractures, they cannot reliably protect against concussions. Studies have shown that football helmets on average only reduce the risk of traumatic brain injury by approximately 20%. Utilizing a concussion prevention headband may likewise reduce risk, but not significantly enough to be considered a sufficient means of football concussion prevention. Research determining the relative effectiveness of various football safety equipment has been largely inconclusive.

The best means of football concussion prevention, then, is education and awareness. Some helpful, basic tips for preventing concussions while at play include:

• Wear proper equipment at all times, including practice

• Examine playing field for uneven spots

• Incorporate neck-strengthening exercises into training

• Pad side posts for impact

• Discourage aggression in practice and on the field

• Learn and use proper technique