Around New England

Ban Tackle Football? Some Massachusetts Legislators Want To Make It Illegal Before Seventh Grade

March 12, 2019

Pop Warner football might become a thing of the past in the state if some Massachusetts legislators succeed in banning tackling in youth football before seventh grade.

Massachusetts H. 2007 states:  “No child in grade seven or under shall play, practice, or otherwise participate in organized tackle football …”

The bill would allow non-tackle football, such as flag football, and it says nothing about kids playing tackle football on their own.

Supporters point to studies showing brain injuries in football players, which are particularly bad if they occur when a player is young.

Opponents point out that tackling is an essential part of football, and they prefer dealing with the problem through better equipment and teaching proper tackling techniques.

The bill currently has 17 sponsors.