Kids shouldn’t hit others for sport

Regarding the Aug. 31 cover story, “Punches With Purpose,” I want to point out the dangers of a sport that rewards young athletes for intentional blows to another athlete’s head. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly discourages boxing for children and adolescents. Participants are at risk of head, face and neck injuries, including concussions and long-term, serious neurological injuries. The AAP encourages students to become involved in other noncontact sports that provide exercise and promote self-esteem and teamwork, and not deliberate hits to the head and body.

Errol Alden, M.D.

Executive Director/CEO

American Academy of Pediatrics

Elk Grove Village