Como bans headers in youth academy to reduce head injury risk

Italian club Como has banned headers for its youth academy players in an effort to minimize head impacts until they are developmentally ready. Players up to U11 will not practice headers at all, while those U12 and older will gradually learn heading with strict limitations. The focus will shift towards long-term technical development and injury prevention. Former player Raphael Varane, involved in the club’s education board, emphasized the importance of protecting young players and fostering a culture of health and safety.

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