Reedsburg Football Team Amish : The tragic death of a West Virginia 8th grader has intensified concerns about the safety of young football players, as a series of fatalities this month highlights the urgent need for enhanced protective measures. Ryan Craddock, mourning the loss of his 13-year-old son, Cohen, is spearheading a campaign to raise awareness and improve safety protocols in youth football.
Cohen Craddock, a passionate young athlete at Madison Middle School in Boone County, West Virginia, suffered a fatal brain injury during a practice session. A hard hit led to a brain bleed and swelling, resulting in Cohen’s untimely death the following day. His father, Ryan Craddock, has described the loss as a devastating blow, expressing his hope that his son’s memory will drive meaningful changes in the sport.
The tragic news of Cohen’s death is part of a disturbing trend this August, with at least three high school football players nationwide having lost their lives. On the same day as Cohen’s injury, 16-year-old Caden Tellier from Selma, Alabama, succumbed to a severe brain injury sustained during his season opener. Earlier in the month, 14-year-old Semaj Wilkins from Coffee County, Alabama, died following a medical emergency during practice.
These incidents contribute to a broader pattern of fatalities in football. According to the National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research, 16 football players died in 2023, with 13 of those deaths linked to football-related activities. Causes include traumatic brain injuries, heat stroke, and sudden heart or lung failures.
In response to these alarming statistics, Ryan Craddock is advocating for the implementation of “guardian caps”—additional head protection designed to reduce the impact of tackles and minimize injury risk. Craddock’s campaign seeks to honor his son’s memory by pushing for reforms that could potentially save other young lives.
Dr. Bryan Oliver, headmaster at John T. Morgan Academy, where Caden Tellier was a student, reflected on the profound impact of these tragedies, noting that Tellier’s positive spirit and vibrant personality will be remembered by many. Similarly, Craddock’s efforts highlight a growing concern among parents and educators about player safety.
As the fall football season begins, the focus on player safety is more crucial than ever. Craddock’s push for improved protective equipment, alongside increased awareness and preventive measures, represents a vital step toward ensuring that youth football remains a safe and enjoyable activity. The community’s response to these tragic losses will likely shape the future of football safety protocols and inspire broader changes in how the sport is played and managed.
