Football day camp reminds parents, players about safety - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

The recent concussion law in Indiana makes it necessary for all athletes and their parents to sign concussion forms that require an athlete sit out a game or practice after a head injury until getting a waiver to return from a licensed medical professional.

Saturday, the USA Football Protection Tour took over the Colts practice field to remind parents and student-athletes the focus on the field should always be "safety first" and that begins with the helmet.

A fun and educational day for many student-athletes, their parents and coaches.

Dad Jay Leinart brought his eight-year-old son to the USA Football Protection Tour day camp to make sure his first time player knew what he was getting into.

With help from Riddell, each young athlete made sure their helmet was snug but comfortable.

Parents were reminded that the most important piece of the "uniform" needs the most attention. Chin straps must always be tight, and if your child gets a haircut during the season, you may need to adjust the helmet.

George Maczuga with Riddell says, "It's going to help him. It's going to help with his hearing as well because with proper fit, the helmet should be placed so the ear holes hit right across the ears, not below."

The recent concussion law here in Indiana aimed to protect student-athletes on the field. But, at the event Saturday, it is about education for parents, coaches and those student athletes off the field.

"We are trying to take out the tackle. For too long people were teaching to use the helmet as a part of the tackle. We now know better than that," says Andy Ryland with USA Football.

In between running the field, these young players, focused on tackling the right way. "Our contact points should be our shoulder and our numbers. Not our head or our facemask or our helmet."

Reminders that hopefully they'll carry with them on the field.

You can learn more about the USA Football Protection Tour's safety highlights on our web site under hot topics.