As the Super Bowl approaches, many find themselves gearing up for what has become a cultural phenomenon. But let’s face it—this isn’t your typical tailgate filled with frigid bare chests and chaotic brawls. It’s more of a gathering where lifelong fans of the New England Patriots mingle with casual fans cheering for the opposing Seahawks, while some staunch Patriots detractors root for Seattle simply out of principle.
Among the guests are a mix of fathers—some of whom played sports in college but now lead lives as lawyers, editors, directors, and bankers. The mothers, too, boast a diverse array of professions, including design, writing, and culinary arts. My partner, a gentle and thoughtful magazine editor, is among the football aficionados, displaying a passion for the game that contrasts sharply with his disdain for his beloved Washington Redskins’ refusal to abandon their offensive name. His emotions are on display as he yells at the television when “the Washington football team,” as he now refers to them, makes mistakes. Yet, his reactions are just enough to maintain a sense of decorum—barely.
While the majority of the men, and even some women, are enthusiastic football fans, I’ve grown up in a household where the sport was always present—my own father, a lifelong Jets supporter, continues to enjoy the game, albeit with varying degrees of enthusiasm. The sounds of the game—Cris Collinsworth’s commentary, the referees’ calls, and the crowd’s energy—have always lulled me into a nostalgic state.
However, a common thread among the attendees is the shared decision not to allow their children, particularly sons, to play football. Understandably so! Sure, there is flag football for kids seeking an alternative to soccer, but let’s be real—flag football is as different from tackle football as chess is from curling. The fast and nimble thrive in flag, while tackle is about raw power and physicality. In fact, many of the boys present at this Super Bowl party will likely never step foot on a football field. If they have played tackle football, it’s probably ended when the risks associated with physical injury became apparent. This shift in mindset is largely due to a mix of factors—regional preferences, personal disinterest, and most notably, parental apprehension.
Recent discussions surrounding the NFL have highlighted the sport’s darker aspects. Even my husband, who is deeply engrossed in sports, has been concerned by alarming headlines related to player safety and violence. High-profile cases involving players like Ray Rice and Adrian Peterson have forced many to confront the harsh realities of the sport, including the risks of concussions and long-term health issues for those who start tackling before the age of twelve. It’s evident that repeated trauma to the brain can lead to devastating consequences, including dementia and depression.
Despite these revelations, the NFL seems to be thriving in terms of revenue and viewership. However, a troubling trend lurks beneath the surface—recent polling from Bloomberg Politics reveals that half of American parents would not permit their sons to play football. This sobering statistic will be on my mind during the Super Bowl, as I join my friends in celebration. But the urge to point out the irony—that the very boys cheering for the game will not be participating in it—will be hard to resist.
How long can we continue to enjoy a sport that is increasingly viewed as dangerous and controversial while acknowledging it has become a game for someone else’s children? I won’t air these thoughts aloud, but it’s a conversation we all know is simmering underneath the surface. For further insights into parenting and safety in sports, check out one of our other blog posts here.
As we dive into this football-filled Sunday, let’s reflect on the complexities of our love for the game, the risks involved, and the future of our children in it. Remember, if you’re considering alternative options for family bonding, reputable retailers like this one offer at-home insemination kits that could provide new avenues for building your family. And for those navigating the journey of pregnancy, March of Dimes offers invaluable resources to support you.
In summary, the Super Bowl may be a beloved tradition, but it’s essential to examine the implications of the sport we celebrate—especially when it comes to our children’s safety and well-being.
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