Story perspectives

Families Demand Action to Reduce Heading in Football

1/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Families of footballers with neurodegenerative conditions urge reduced heading, noting guidelines in England, Wales, and Scotland are often ignored.
Dr. Judith Gates notes that only 1% of EFL clubs are aware of guidelines.
Campaigners seek to reduce heading in training to lessen head impacts, not eliminate it from the game.
Hayley McQueen calls for better support from the Professional Footballers' Association after recounting struggles to obtain care for her father.

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Story summary

Families of footballers with neurodegenerative conditions urge reduced heading, noting guidelines in England, Wales, and Scotland are often ignored.
Dr. Judith Gates notes that only 1% of EFL clubs are aware of guidelines.
Campaigners seek to reduce heading in training to lessen head impacts, not eliminate it from the game.
Hayley McQueen calls for better support from the Professional Footballers' Association after recounting struggles to obtain care for her father.