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Football is deeply embedded in American culture, especially in high schools. However, a recent series of severe injuries to high school football players in Pennsylvania has reignited concerns about the sport’s safety.
Dr. Rob Gallo, an orthopedic sports medicine specialist at Penn State Health in Hershey, opined, “My sense is it’s a cyclical thing.”
He added that while there might be a perception of an increase in injuries, it could simply be the result of cell phones and social media, which amplify the spread of injury-related videos and stories.
The nature of football hasn’t become more dangerous than it was a decade ago, according to Gallo.
Nicole Cattano, an associate professor and Athletic Trainer at West Chester University, expressed her concerns about the recent spate of injuries.
After examining historical injury data up to 2022, Cattano found that injury rates remained consistent. Similarly, she also holds the belief that the widespread use of social media has amplified our consciousness of these occurrences.
A series of events across Pennsylvania has raised concerns:
- Mason Martin from Karns City Area High School is currently battling for his life in a Pittsburgh hospital following a severe injury.
- Max Engle, another player, collapsed on the field and, as per the latest reports, his condition is critical.
- Antwan Black was flown to a hospital after a hit caused him to temporarily lose feeling in his legs and was released.
- Michael Egetoe was also flown out for care after suffering a concussion and swelling around a cervical vertebrae, but has since been released from the hospital.
Given these instances, it's understandable that parents, teammates, and fans are rattled.
One player's mother remarked that while parents always fear injuries in contact sports, they hope for their child's safety every time they play.
A concerning factor is that today’s players are more bigger, better, faster, and stronger than they used to be, possibly leading to more severe injuries. Cattano pointed out the shift, “Sports are different now than they were 20, 30 years ago.”
Dr. Matthew Matava of Washington University Orthopedics noted in 2019 that while ligament sprains are common in high school football, spinal cord injuries, though rare, are a matter of significant concern. Moreover, once a concussion is sustained, it significantly heightens the likelihood of experiencing another injury during the same season.
The importance of immediate medical attention is paramount.
Certified Athletic Trainers on the field can make a crucial difference, as they did in the case of Buffalo Bills’ player Damar Hamlin earlier this year.
Cattano emphasizes the importance of not only establishing an emergency plan but also diligently rehearsing it, guaranteeing a prompt and effective response in times of crises.
While football remains a beloved sport, the inherent risks cannot be ignored.
It is vital for schools, coaches, medical teams, and parents to ensure the utmost safety for the players. As Dr. Gallo stated, the decision to play football must weigh the risks against the benefits for each individual and their families.
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