Como ban headers for youth academy players under 12

Como ban headers for youth academy players under 12 Como have announced they are banning headers in their youth academy until players are ready, following guidance from Raphael Varane to ‘protect our kids and take head impacts seriously.’ The Serie A club becomes one of the first to take such strong steps to reduce the risks from avoidable head impacts. They also insist that it will be replaced by the encouragement of better long term technical development, focusing on time on the ball and decision making. When the players are ready, they will be taught the skills of heading the ball gradually along with other techniques. Como focus on possession, not headers Como announce signing of Raphael Varane on free transfer. “I have spoken several times before about the need to take head impacts seriously in football and the absolute need to protect our kids,” said former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender Varane, who sits on the Como Board of Education. “For young players, the best approach is clear rules, good coaching, comprehension and a culture where welfare and safety come first. “This pathway reduces unnecessary contact at the youngest ages, when the brain is still growing, and then teaches the skill properly, step by step, with the right control.” Headers are banned for players under 11, so corners are taken as throw-ins played on the floor. From the Under 12 level, they can begin to introduce headers using a light rubber ball, but maximum once a month, with a maximum of five headers in a session. COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28:Jesus Rodriguez of Como 1907 celebrates with his team-mate after scoring their team’s second goalduring the Serie A match between Como 1907 and US Lecce at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images) For all ages in the Como academy, coaches will reduce ‘repetitive and unnecessary heading exposure’ and over inflated balls will be avoided too. Although the ball is certainly less heavy and damaging than in the past, there is still insufficient medical research on the effects long-term of repeatedly heading the football.