The Truth About High School Football and Player Safety: What the Data Says

The Truth About High School Football and Player Safety: What the Data Says

Colorado's 8-Man All-State Football Game 2023

At the All-State Foundation, our mission is not only to promote the sport of football but also to support the future of young athletes through educational scholarships and a commitment to their well-being, both on and off the field. As the conversation around player safety intensifies, especially concerning Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), it's important to look at the latest research and what it means for high school football players.

Addressing Concerns Around CTE and High School Football

CTE has become a major topic in discussions about football, with concerns that repeated hits to the head could result in long-term cognitive and emotional issues for players. While these concerns are valid, particularly for professional athletes, a recent study published by JAMA Neurology offers encouraging news for high school football players.

The study, which analyzed 3,904 men who graduated from high school in Wisconsin in 1957, found no significant association between playing high school football and the development of cognitive impairments or depression later in life. This research provides a sense of relief for parents, coaches, and young athletes who are passionate about the sport but concerned about its potential impact on their long-term health.

What the Study Reveals

According to the study, there is no evidence to suggest that playing high school football increases the risk of cognitive decline or depression in later years. The research controlled for variables like IQ, family background, and educational level, and compared outcomes between those who played football, those who participated in non-contact sports, and those who did not play any sport at all. The findings showed that high school football players had similar mental health outcomes as their non-football-playing peers.

While football has evolved since 1957—with athletes today being bigger, faster, and stronger—this study suggests that, at least at the high school level, the risks of long-term cognitive or emotional damage are no higher than they were in previous generations.

Promoting Safety and Education

At the All-State Foundation, we take player safety seriously. We actively promote the use of modern, high-tech helmets designed to reduce the risk of head injuries in underfunded small schools and provide educational programs for coaches to ensure that they are teaching safe tackling techniques. The sport of football has made tremendous advancements in player safety, and these initiatives are critical for ensuring that the game remains both exciting and safe.

We also focus on helping athletes plan for life beyond the game. Through scholarships and leadership training, we prepare young men for success both on and off the field. Football teaches invaluable life skills like discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. These skills will serve these athletes long after their playing days are over.

A Bright Future for High School Football

As football continues to evolve, so too must our approach to safety and education. The All-State Foundation is proud to contribute to these efforts by providing scholarships, promoting safe play, and ensuring that football remains a positive force in the lives of young athletes. While there is still more work to be done, the results of the recent CTE study offer a reassuring perspective on the long-term impact of high school football.

Football remains a powerful tool for shaping young leaders, and with continued advancements in safety and training, we believe the game will continue to provide a positive and safe experience for generations to come.

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