Football is one of the most unpredictable sports. Just about anything can happen, at any point in the game.
Whether it’s senior Danny Van Camp completing a 37-yard pass to put the Scouts on the Libertyville 19-yard line with a minute left or senior Charlie Markee making a pick-six off of Libertyville to tie the game at 7-7, you never know what will happen.
Although the unpredictability of the game can be exhilarating, there does seem to be one certainty: injuries. They can change the course of a game, entire season or even a lifetime. About 5 percent of high school football players sustain a concussion during the season. Experts warn the concussions increase the risk of chronic brain injury.
However, as technology advances in high school sports, football equipment has improved too. New helmets may decrease the risk of concussions, for example. Athletes also have access Q-Collars and Guardian Caps, which promise to make the game safer.
“Just from a helmet stand point, the modern helmet is much more protective than anything that we used to wear. Players are definitely becoming more safe on the field as advancements in equipment continue to develop because of the heightened awareness of things like concussions,” LFHS football coach and former player Dylan Johnson said.
Confidence is very important in sports, especially in football. Injuries tend to be one of the larger factors that contribute to a lack of confidence on the field. For many, the fear of getting hurt replaces the belief that one has in themself, so their performance has the potential to be impacted.
Junior safety Aedan Cassidy said he never thought much about concussions. Then he got one this season.
“After I got my first concussion this season, it has definitely been in the back of my head when I’m out there on the field,” he said.
Although there are people who think that football is too unsafe to play due to weak equipment, others argue the main reason for injuries is not about the equipment at all. Injuries may be deduced to mistakes made by the players.
“I feel safe because anything that happens on the field is primarily in my control and the equipment is more of an extra safety precaution in a way,” senior defensive lineman Nate Borland said.
Other athletes say injuries are just part of the game.
“Sadly, injuries are just part of sports. Injuries can come from poor technique by a player, but I think it’s mostly just a luck thing. You never know how you’re gonna land or twist up when tackling someone or getting tackled, even if you have the best technique,” senior running back Marty Hippel said.
Although in many cases getting hurt is inevitable, it is still important to take the extra precautions that will help you to protect yourself.
“The best equipment combined with safe teaching and execution of proper technique is certainly the best recipe for safe and responsible play,” Head Football Coach Chuck Spagnoli said.
