USAfootball

Keeping practice fun helps young players stay engaged

Children learn best when they are engaged and having fun.

Most kids play sports to be with their friends and have a good time.

So it is in a coach’s best interest to seek creative ways to teach football’s basic skills at practice within the dynamics and culture of the team.

“It is essential coaches know their individual players,” USA Football manager of football development Andy Ryland said. “Preseason meetings with parents are conducted to factor in different learning styles.”

Coaches must work to balance both verbal instructions and physical demonstrations.

Step progression following concussion offers guide for returning to academics

As more is learned about concussion and its effects, high schools and youth leagues across the United States are adopting return-to-play policies to safely get athletes back on the playing field.

But what about the classroom?

Student-athletes who suffer a concussion need care – and patience – from the academic world as well, said Dr. Gerry Gioia, the chief of pediatric neuropsychology at the Children’s National Medical Center and director of its Safe Concussion Outcome Recovery and Education Program.

Hydration strategies for spring competition

As warm weather approaches, football players and coaches are starting to pull out the helmets, shoulder pads, blocking shields and lesson plans for spring workouts.

One key to a good football practice is proper hydration.

Throughout training – including before, during and after – players and coaches both must focus on maintaining adequate hydration levels. Drinking plenty of fluids and staying well-hydrated benefits onfield performance while reducing the risk of heat stress or illness.