Putting Safety First: EPSC's Commitment to Player Safety in Soccer, Especially Regarding Headers
At Eleftheria Pancyprian Soccer Club (EPSC), our commitment to our players goes beyond the field—it extends to their safety and well-being. We take the issue of player safety seriously, particularly when it comes to the important topic of headers in soccer. In line with official U.S. Soccer guidelines, we want to ensure that our players of all ages are protected while enjoying the beautiful game.
U.S. Soccer Youth Soccer Association (USYSA) has established clear guidelines to protect players, particularly those under the age of 13, from the potential dangers associated with heading the ball. These guidelines prioritize player safety without compromising their enjoyment of the game:
Ages 10 and Under: Players aged 10 and under are prohibited from heading the ball directly from the air during matches or competitions. Additionally, they should not practice heading the ball in any organized team setting. Should a player in this age group deliberately head the ball in a match, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team at the spot of the infraction. If the incident occurs within the penalty area, the ball is moved outside the area, and an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team. For the 2023/2024 season this is our 2013-2017 teams.
Ages 11 and 12: Players aged 11 and 12 are permitted to head the ball during matches and competitions. They may also practice heading the ball in an organized team practice or skill session. However, coaches must be vigilant in ensuring that no single player heads the ball more than 25 times per week, regardless of the setting. For the 2023/2024 season this is our 2012 teams.
Ages 13 and Older: Players aged 13 and older are allowed to head the ball during matches, competitions, and practice sessions without any specific restrictions. For the 2023/2024 season this is our 2005-2010 teams.
EPSC's Dedication to Player Safety
At EPSC, we fully embrace the USYSA safety guidelines and prioritize player safety above all else. Our coaches are trained to implement these guidelines effectively during training sessions and matches in the CJSL, NYCSL and EDP. We believe that by adhering to these safety measures, we can create an environment where players can enjoy the game while minimizing unnecessary risks.
As we continue to develop our players' skills and foster their passion for soccer, rest assured that their safety will always be our top priority. We believe that with proper coaching, education, and adherence to guidelines, we can create a safer, more enjoyable soccer experience for everyone involved.
