 
3 Biggest Concerns
If given a chance, whether becoming a one-year player, a lifetime player or just a fan, the experience of playing football is like no other.
I encourage you to read the “Three most common concerns” listed below as well as the contents of this web site. There are many reasons why kids do not play, many of which are very valid. However many are not, please make your decisions based on accurate info.
Feel free to contact any Green Hornets football coach listed in our directory or contact the commissioner with questions or concerns. See you on the field!
1. Waiting to play football until older
This is probably the biggest misunderstanding I hear.
Tackle football is unique to most other sports as there are very few opportunities to play recreationally as a teenager and even fewer as an adult. In addition, High Schools typically are turning away a large number of applicants trying out.
However, football at the younger age groups is at its most controlled and regulated environment. It is more accommodating than it ever will be. At the youth level, age, weight, minimum play standards as well as adjusted rules cater to inexperienced, younger players.
Each year after the age of 8 the game becomes more physical, faster paced and less regulated. Add in the wide range of physical and mental maturity and there is less chance of success and enjoyment as each year passes. Unless the child is so physically gifted he can wait, do not wait until high school or even middle school.
Please do not delay, they cannot experience this later.
2. Injuries
Please see number #1 for additional reference. Also, please see reports from both the Mayo Clinic and USA Football. Common perception and media presentation of the higher age groups, college and pro, are not a true representation of injuries faced at the youth level. Please take the time to read for yourself.
It is a contact sport, injuries do happen, however as these reports show, the fear of injury at the youth level is often greater than the actual occurrence.
Download the Mayo Clinic Report and USA Football Report.
3. Season Commitment
There is no denying this, football is almost a lifestyle and again unique from many other sports. Once again, perception and reality do vary quite a bit. We do realize to entice more players to play, and particularly at the younger ages, changes do need to be made. Due in part to the small number of leagues available to play in, often there is no alternative and we are forced to go along with the pack.
The biggest deterrent seems to be the season start date. It is ridiculous; I think every Green Hornets coach would agree. It is the only county sport that begins during summer vacation so right away throws up a red flag!
Preparation for football is not just a tradition, it is a necessity. Therefore, there is only so much we can deviate from other orgs and the league. Unfortunately, since we have to compete or keep up with the "Jones", we cannot fall too far behind.
However, we have made changes to make this as enjoyable and accommodating as possible. Please also review the season important dates link for more details.
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