Kids Learn New Tackling Style Aimed At Preventing Concussions
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Hundreds of kids nationwide are now learning a new style of football tackling, aimed at preventing concussions.
"They're doing a good job. They're excited. It's something new that we are trying to teach and instill in them about tackling."
Seattle Seahawks assistant coach Rocky Seto helped develop the "Hawk Tackle." It's a rugby-style tackling method, which keeps your head out of the equation.
"What we're doing through this Hawk style tackling is we're re-culturing this sport, making sure we keep kids as safe as we can, and once again removing head from contact," said youth football coach Ron White.
Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter
The technique requires you to keep your head to the side while driving your shoulder into the thigh or chest of the runner. You still hit just as hard -- just not with your head.
"You know for a long time it's about hitting and running into guys as fast as you can, but with all the concussions and all injuries, we are trying to change the culture of it," said college football coordinator Reggie Bolton.
The coaches who are teaching the "Hawk" tackling method are focusing on kids ages 6 to 14, teaching them the technique while they're young.
"You start teaching them the right way to do it now, as they move up to the high school and college level they will already know it and how to protect themselves and tackle the right way," Bolton said.
There are still safety concerns with "Hawk tackling." Some worry that hitting with your shoulder opens you up to neck and spine injuries, which can be just as bad as a head injury. Others say there's no technique that can assure concussion-free football.