Como relies on safety: headers are banned in the youth academy

Como relies on safety: header ban in the youth academy

According to Sports.

Background

Raphael Varane, former Manchester United and Real Madrid player, is not only a prominent face in football, but also an active contributor to Como's training strategies. His experience and views on football safety could be instrumental in how the youth academy adapts its programs to best protect players while promoting their technical development.

Why this is important

Como's decision to introduce a ban on heading in the youth academy is a significant step towards improving the safety of young players. At a time when awareness of head injuries in football is growing, Como shows responsibility and is committed to the health of his talents. This could also inspire other clubs to take similar measures and focus on technical development.

Key findings

• Como relies on safety: headers are banned in the youth academy.
• Como's youth academy has introduced a heading ban to ensure the safety of young players and develop their technical skills.
• 👀 Among the first clubs: Champions League side bans youth headers - Yahoo Sports.

The Italian first division club Como has made a groundbreaking decision: heading ball drills will be banned in the club's youth academy until further notice. This is part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce the risk of preventable head injuries in young players. Como is one of the first clubs to take such far-reaching measures. The decision to ban heading training is seen by many as an important step in protecting young athletes. The academy is now increasingly focusing on the long-term technical development of the players. As soon as the young talents are appropriately prepared, they should be gradually introduced to the technique of heading the ball. Raphael Varane, former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender and member of the club's education committee, commented on the issue: "I have repeatedly stressed the importance of taking head injuries in football seriously and protecting our children as best as possible. Young players need clear rules, good training and an understanding that health and safety should come first. This approach reduces unnecessary head contact in the youngest age groups, when the brain is still developing. Later, heading technique is then taught correctly and in a controlled manner." Heading is completely prohibited for players up to U11 level. Instead, corners are taken as low throw-ins. Heading exercises can be introduced carefully from the U12 level onwards, initially using a light rubber ball. These exercises are limited to a maximum of once per month and five header attempts per training session. Across all age groups at the Como Academy, coaches are also expected to reduce “repeated and unnecessary head strain.” In addition, care is taken to ensure that the balls used are not overly inflated. Como's measure is causing debate: Is this a necessary step to protect young players or is it going too far, since heading the ball is, after all, a part of football at a professional level? Opinions vary, and fans are invited to share their thoughts in the comments. Como's decision represents an important step in the discussion about safety in youth football and could potentially set a precedent for other clubs in Europe and beyond. At a time when there is increasing focus on safety in sport, this approach by Como could serve as a game-changer and inspire other clubs to implement similar policies. Protecting the health of young players should always be a top priority while promoting technical skill and a love of the game.

What happens next

The Como academy will now focus more on the long-term technical development of the players before gradually introducing them to the heading game. This could mean that the training of young talent will be adjusted in the coming years to ensure they are well prepared. Raphael Varane, who serves on the club's Education Committee, will certainly play an important role in the implementation of these new guidelines.

Frequently asked questions

What has Como decided?

Como has decided to ban heading exercises in the youth academy until further notice.

Why was the heading ban introduced?

The heading ban was introduced to reduce the risk of avoidable head injuries among young players.

Who confirmed the header ban?

Raphael Varane, former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender, has spoken out on the issue and stressed the importance of the ban.

What changes for the players up to U11?

For players up to U11 Heading is completely prohibited and corners are taken as low throw-ins.

How is heading training adapted for older players?

From the U12 level onwards, heading exercises can be introduced carefully, with the technique being taught step by step.

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