Head Safety in Youth Soccer: A Parent's Guide

After Patrick Grange’s CTE diagnosis, the conversation about head safety in soccer changed forever. As a foundation, we feel a responsibility to share what we’ve learned — especially when it comes to protecting young players.

Current Guidelines

U.S. Soccer Heading Policy

Players under 10: No heading in games or practice
Players 11-13: Limited heading in practice (max 30 minutes per week, 15-20 headers)
Players 14+: No restrictions, but coaches should teach proper technique

Why These Rules Matter

Research shows that:

Young brains are more vulnerable to impact injuries
Neck strength (which supports the head during heading) doesn’t fully develop until the mid-teens
Repeated sub-concussive impacts may accumulate over time

What Parents Can Do

Know the rules — Make sure your child’s league follows U.S. Soccer heading guidelines
Watch for symptoms — Headaches, dizziness, and confusion after heading should be taken seriously
Encourage proper technique — When old enough to head, ensure they’re taught correct form
Communicate with coaches — Ask about their approach to heading and head safety
Stay informed — The science is evolving; follow reputable sources for updates

Resources

U.S. Soccer Player Safety — Official heading guidelines
Concussion Legacy Foundation — Research and education
Boston University CTE Center — Leading CTE research

Our Commitment

The Patrick Grange Memorial Foundation continues to advocate for safer playing practices at all levels of soccer. Pat’s legacy lives on through every rule change, every piece of research, and every parent who takes head safety seriously.