Despite the obvious risks and injuries associated with the game, I believe that football is still one of the most popular and rewarding sports kids can play. If you ask a former player, even some who have suffered through a number of injuries, you’ll hear them speak with affection and praise about their time spent on the gridiron and with their teammates.

Having played and coached youth football, and been exposed to colligate and pro athletes who have played the game, here are a few key positives that I think youth football provides.

1. Camaraderie: Unlike many other sports, football requires dozens of players who have committed to training and working towards the same goal. The bond or brotherhood that football develops while working toward this goal is unlike that of any other sport.

2. Work Ethics: Football requires timing, precision and execution to be successful on the field. Those things are only developed during practices which can be a burden and grind during the heat and dog days of summer conditioning. The work ethic and commitment that is developed in young athletes carries with them and can serve as a foundation for the rest of their lives.

3. Physical and Mental Toughness: Football is one of the most challenging sports both physically and mentally. The risk of injury in football is high, and due to the nature of the game bumps, bruises, aches and pains are regular and normal part of the season that every players are forced to fight through. They are required to work through the limitation and challenge’s to give their very best even when their body physical abilities may be limited. In addition to the physical demands of the game mental toughness is essential for players to develop to move past the adversity of a critical mistake during the game or and injury that is limiting their performance and ability.