Seahawks focus on moms to convince parents that football is safe

Would you let your kids play football? It’s a question asked far more frequently in light of increased awareness of concussions and other risks.

It’s got many fans worried about football’s future. That’s why the Seahawks and lovers of the game are targeting the most influential group of people they think will ultimately determine its fate — moms. The more we hear about brain injuries, the more parents are saying “go play soccer instead.”

The team is hosting a free Mom’s Football Safety Clinic Monday, June 27 at CenturyLink Field.

The two-hour clinic will provide an overview for moms whose children are interested in playing football including the techniques of tackling and blocking, proper equipment fitting, heat and hydration tips, sudden cardiac arrest protocols, concussion awareness and nutrition. The first hour will be conducted in a classroom setting and the second hour will include interactive drills down on the field.

Bothell High School football coach Tom Bainter will lead the clinic.

He is a USA Football master trainer who is leading efforts in our state to make the game safer and convincing moms the game can be played without endangering their children.

It might sound a little sexist, but Bainter says moms are the ones who generally need the most convincing.

“We do have some women who are coaches, which is awesome … but for the most part it’s men. So the idea of the clinic is to get the women out,” Bainter said.

The clinic will also feature GM John Schneider’s wife Tracy, and some prominent mom’s including Constance Trufant, who’s raised three NFL players — Marcus, Desmond and Isaiah.

“That’s going to help the moms alleviate at least some of the fears,” said Paul Johns, the Seahawks director of youth football and alumni programs.

One of the big topics is better tackling techniques. It’s something the Seahawks have emphasized — calling it the Hawk Tackle.  It’s much like rugby tackling — all with the shoulder.

“This goes back to when football first began. People tackled with their shoulders and their legs and their arms because helmets were made out of leather and you didn’t use your head,” Johns said.

Bainter has been leading the effort known as Heads Up Football for a number of years.  He says it’s a critical step in saving the sport by preventing many serious injuries.

I don’t want to see the game go away. I think it’s a great game. I think if we don’t do something to make it safer it will go away,” Bainter said.

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