Como 1907, the Italian youth academy known for its innovative approach to player development, has announced a comprehensive set of heading regulations designed to protect young athletes while still allowing them to acquire the necessary skills.
Age‑specific heading limits
Players under ten will not head the ball in any training or match situation; instead, restarts will be conducted with floor passes using the feet.
The under‑11 cohort will continue to be barred from heading during regular sessions, with only a brief introduction to technique using a light rubber ball toward the end of the season.
Under‑12 players will practice heading once a month with a soft runner ball, limited to a maximum of five attempts per session, while competitive matches will follow the FIGC’s standard rules.
For the under‑13 group, heading is permitted only once a week, again capped at five headers per session, and is prohibited during games; throw‑ins will be taken with a hand placed below head height.
All age categories are instructed to minimise repetitive and unnecessary heading exposure, and any over‑inflated balls will be replaced to reduce impact forces.
The academy will distribute a parent FAQ and provide coaching guidance alongside the new rules, while continuously reviewing implementation with coaches and families throughout the season.
Raphaël Varane, a member of the Como 1907 Board of Education, emphasises the need to treat head impacts with the seriousness they deserve and to safeguard the next generation, whereas Osian Roberts, Head of Development, highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment for player growth.