Deaths of several high school football players prompt calls for reform
The recent deaths of at least five high school football players and one middle-schooler is renewing calls for safety precautions as a new school year gets underway.
The recent deaths of at least five high school football players and a middle schooler during or soon after gridiron activities is renewing calls for greater safety precautions as a new school year gets underway.
Three players died either while they were practicing or shortly thereafter, one died during a preseason workout, and another died after he was tackled and hit his head during a game.
The recent incidents have alarmed parents, school officials and medical professionals, with some cautioning that the only way to prevent on-the-field deaths is not to play tackle football at all.
Regena Adams’ son Semaj Wilkins, 14, of Coffee County, Alabama, died during practice Aug. 13 after he suffered a “medical emergency.” She said there should be more guidelines about and research into how to better protect players.
“It still seems like a nightmare to me,” she said. “I’m at peace that I know he’s gone, but it still seems unreal.”
Rating: 5