Banning of heading footballs in training for primary-aged children

[jdrobbo]

As someone who leads a primary school setup, I have to say that I’m comfortable with this. Just wondering what others thought? Would be interested in getting the thoughts of coaches, parents etc. At foundation stage, ball heading will still be permitted in gameplay.

[jdrobbo]

FA spokesman quote:

“...In the Foundation/Primary School age groups, we strongly recommend that teachers and coaches should not include heading in training sessions which would include curriculum and extra-curricular sessions. For Youth/Secondary School age groups we have provided guidance on a graduated introduction to the technique of heading...”

[cricketfieldclarets]

The games changing beyond recognition anyway. But in fairness probably sensible to stop kids repeatedly hitting something on their heads.

Besides may teach English kids more about playing on the deck.

Having said that. You can’t beat seeing a great headed goal.

[cricketfieldclarets]

The rules wouldn’t have stopped this legend though.

[Burnley1989]

Footballs aren’t even that heavy these days and how hard can your average primary school kid hit a ball.

It is what it is though, kids will still head it in the park with their mates and on the yard

[jdrobbo]

Further details on football weight/ level of inflation listed below...


- No heading in training in the foundation phase (primary school children).
- Graduated approach to heading for children in the development phase U12-U16.
- U18 heading drills should be reduced, to take into consideration the heading exposure in matches.
- Don’t over inflate the footballs: use the lowest pressure authorised by the Laws of the Game.

[claret10]

Can see the logic - however surely it is safer to teach them the proper way (in moderation) to head the ball as safe as possible at an early age rather than them going out with their mates emulating what they see in the pro games without knowing the proper technique?

[dsr]

Further details on football weight/ level of inflation listed below...


- No heading in training in the foundation phase (primary school children).
- Graduated approach to heading for children in the development phase U12-U16.
- U18 heading drills should be reduced, to take into consideration the heading exposure in matches.
- Don’t over inflate the footballs: use the lowest pressure authorised by the Laws of the Game.

I always thought that repeatedly heading a softer ball hurt more than a hard one? Not that I was ever convinced!

[Funkydrummer]

I think they should also consider stopping them running around as it could cause :-

1. Damage to their joints eg kness, ankles and hips.

2.Calluses to their feet.

3.Pulled and/or torn muscles.

Goodness knows what a strain it must put on their heart and other internal organs with all
that bouncing about.