Youth Football Teams Try Helmet Caps To Reduce Concussions
LYNNFIELD (CBS) -- There was something different about a North Shore football team on Sunday.
As the Cape Ann Youth Football League held its championship, the Masconomet team was wearing helmets with extra protection called Guardian Caps.
Guardian Caps are a helmet cover that slips over any standard helmet and helps soften the blow. It's being used by youth programs all the way up to Division 1 college teams.
"It helps reduce impact up to 33 percent head-to-head or head-to-ground," said Steve Giordano of Guardian.
Masconomet and a few other teams have been using the Guardian Caps all season-long, especially during practice.
"It's all about child safety and if this is another edge to protect a child from an injury, we are all about safety for our kids," football coach Dean Kartsouna said.
No matter the age group, football is a rough and tumble sport, and the big hits cause great concern for parents, coaches and players.
"As a parent you sit in the stands and you worry about your son getting a concussion," parent Bethany Cass said.
At first there was some difficulty getting approval from the league to use the Guardian Caps during games, it has not been certified by the National Operating Committee on Standards For Athletic Equipment.
But parents love it, because they see it as extra protection for their kids.
"I think they are fantastic," Cass said. "My son had a concussion last season and you don't want number two."
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