we live in Michigan and football is just about as popular here as it is any state in America. That said, my 18 year old son has been recruited to play since about age 11. But we've held firm that he's not allowed to play. Instead he's a water polo goalie and as a Jr. last year they won the state championship. He sustained two cracked ribs in the deciding game and his teammates have had concussions along the way but we're still content with our decision. Just too much can go wrong in a violent, collision sport like football.

It is indeed a rough sport. That said, any sport has risk. My grandson plays football and is very good. Colleges are already looking at him as a freshman. But he had his worst head hit (so far) falling on the hardwood during a school basketball game. But I wish he didn’t play football - he’s also very smart and I want to protect that beautiful mind!