This is a very interesting thread. I would like to interject an opinion into the discussion see what you gentlemen think.
My late husband and all three of my sons played football. All were above average in height and build and so naturally that was an advantage. However, my husband did not allow the boys to play tackle (even though they wanted to) until 8th grade. He had several reasons for this:
- he did not think of the boys were physically mature enough to play football
- he did not want our larger kids hurting the younger kids who were not physically mature
- he did not feel that the coaching at the youth levels was worth the risk
He had them play flag football to learn general concepts until they were more physically mature. Were they at a disadvantage their first year competing with kids who had played for three or four years? Sure, but we were playing the long game. They held their own and by the end of the 8th grade they were completely ”caught up” in terms of game experience and acumen.
I think the discussion point in regard to” selling the moms” to allow their kids to play football is an excellent one. I know for me, it was far easier to let them play when I knew they were properly coached and that they were physically mature enough to play.
I really think that the pee-wee/youth leagues probably do more harm than they do good in terms of endearing people to the game. There are many kids who mature earlier who are All Stars in 3rd grade who by the time they get to high school simply cannot compete because the other kids have all caught up or surpassed them in terms of physical maturity. Ironically, the kids who mature later have to learn techniques at an earlier age to be able to compete. Then, when they mature they have “it all”.
I have probably mentioned that my husband coached for many years and would discuss how the game had changed both in terms of the rules and equipment and speed. He happened to play linebacker and would tell me that he would absolutely level receivers crossing in front of him who were running crossing routes. At the time this was within the rules, and it had the effect of slowing down receivers crossing the middle. I can imagine what Quay Walker (or a Dick Butkus) would do to Tyreek Hill crossing in front of him if he could under those rules.
Accordingly, the game has to be coached and taught differently. I sometimes wonder however if the illegality of downfield contact doesn't speed up the game such that injuries are more prevalent.
As I said this is a very interesting topic and I look forward to other people's comments.