Investigating the effects of youth tackle football on brain development
Official title: Understanding the neurodevelopmental effects of youth tackle football participation
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11099820 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how playing youth tackle football might affect kids' brain development and thinking skills, and it's for young athletes and their families who want to understand the risks of brain injuries while playing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $624,362 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD110401-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11099820 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 8 to 12 years who are beginning their first season of tackle football.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not participating in youth tackle football or are older than 12 years may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research examines how participation in youth tackle football may impact brain development and cognitive function. By tracking young athletes from the start of their first season, the study aims to identify risk factors associated with brain injuries and neurotrauma. Researchers will use advanced tools, such as instrumented mouthguards and strength testing, to gather data on the players' exposure to potential injuries and their neuromuscular control. The goal is to fill knowledge gaps regarding the long-term effects of tackle football on children's health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety measures and guidelines for youth tackle football, ultimately protecting children's brain health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has highlighted concerns regarding brain injuries in contact sports, but this study aims to provide novel insights by establishing a true baseline for young athletes.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Caccese, Jaclyn B. — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Caccese, Jaclyn B.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.