PREPARING FOR BATTLE Tips on What Your Child Needs on the Field

Football Helmet

There are two types of football helmets: the "air helmet" and the "suspension helmet". Both helmets provide adequate protection for the head and are required at all times during practice and games. The air helmet utilizes an inflatable device that adjusts specifically to the shape and size of the player's head. The fit can be adjusted by inflating or deflating the helmet with a pump and/or by the chinstrap. The suspension helmet is made with a thick padded material that makes up the inner lining of the helmet. The chinstrap adjusts the fit of this helmet. Whichever helmet you choose, make sure that it fits snuggly on the player's head.

Face Mask

A facemask is used to protect the player's face from injury caused by contact from another player. Facemasks resemble cages on the front of the helmet, and are made of steel covered in plastic. The kind of facemask used is generally determined by position. The "box cag" is a basic two-bar facemask. Quarterbacks, defensive backs and wide receivers usually choose this style of facemask. The "four bar" facemask has a "closed cage," giving the player more protection for hitting and blocking. Running backs, tight ends and linebackers prefer the four bar. The "full mask" has six bars, giving the face maximum protection, but also limiting vision to a certain extent. However, offensive and defensive linemen like the six bar because of the close, hard contact they encounter on almost every play.

Shoulder Pads

Shoulder pads vary in size and style to accommodate the size and position of the player. When choosing shoulder pads, make sure that they are both comfortable and non-restrictive. It is essential that they are fitted correctly, and strapped on properly every time - all straps and buckles must be fastened. If there are any additions such as neck rolls, cowboy collars or shock pads, they too must be worn properly to prevent injury. If these additional pads are not properly secured to the shoulder pads they could in fact lead to serious injury.

Mouth Guard

There are 3 kinds of mouth guards. All levels of play require that a mouth guard is worn, but the style is up to the individual player. The "basic mouth guard" protects the teeth and is attached to the facemask by a strap. The "boxer style mouth guard" is strapless and fits into the mouth to protect the teeth. Kids prefer this style so that they can wedge their mouth guard between the facemask and helmet (like the pros do) when they are not using it. The "lip guard" provides protection for the teeth as well as the lips, and is also attached by a strap to the facemask.

Football Cleats

The style of football shoe worn should be comfortable, sturdy and appropriate for the level of football being played. There are basically three types of football shoes: high tops, mid highs and low tops. All three styles of shoes are available with molded bottoms, or screw-in cleat bottoms. From age 6-12 in youth football molded cleat bottoms are mandatory. Ages 13 and older have the option of wearing either screw-in cleats or molded bottoms. Mid high and high tops provide support to the ankles, preventing the chance of injury. Low top cleats, while providing greater mobility, are not recommended for younger athletes due to the lack of stability in the ankle area.

Footballs

The style of football used is greatly related to the age range of the players. Make sure to use the kind of football certified for a level of play. Age 6-8: Players can only use the smaller footballs made from all rubber material. This football helps younger kids throw, catch and handle the ball easier. The rubber surface makes the ball easier to grip in wet and dry climates and is specifically designed for smaller hands. Ages 9-12: Players use a ball made of both rubber and leather materials. It is slightly larger than the kind used by the 6-8 age group. This football is designed specifically for the "medium" sized hand. Ages 13-18: Players use a ball made of all leather material. This football is the same size that is used by college players, and is just one size smaller that what is used in the NFL.

Submitted by: The Active Network, Inc.