Intercollegiate Soccer Athlete Head Impacts Across Field Locations

An abstract of a study by Sullivan et al determining the magnitude and frequency of head impacts across field location in intercollegiate soccer athletes is presented. Set pieces (corner kicks and free kicks) can result in similar magnitude head impacts across different areas of the field. Clearances and goal kicks can often land in the defensive middle zone of the field, which may be a reason why this zone observed the most head impacts. Improved rule enforcement would increase protection for athletes and potentially lower the quantity of sub-concussive impacts. Increased player peripheral awareness would increase protection from impacts from other players, while coaching correct heading technique would lower risk of head injuries resulting from heading the ball.