Can Football Protect Lives? McQueen Daughters Speak Out at Inquest

The inquest into the death of former Scotland and Manchester United footballer Gordon McQueen has concluded that repeated heading of a football likely contributed to a brain disease that was a factor in his passing. This finding raises significant concerns about the long-term effects of heading in football, especially among younger players. The implications of this verdict could lead to discussions on changes in training and safety protocols in the sport.

Last updated: 26 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The inquest, held in October 2023, highlighted the potential link between repetitive heading in football and neurodegenerative diseases such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Gordon McQueen, who passed away in July 2023 at the age of 70, had been diagnosed with a form of dementia before his death. His daughters, Hayley McQueen and Anna Forbes, have since expressed their concerns regarding the safety of heading the ball, particularly for young players.

Key takeaways

• Gordon McQueen's death was linked to brain disease resulting from heading footballs.
• The inquest suggests a need for a reevaluation of heading practices in football.
• Concerns are growing among parents and professionals about the safety of younger players.

Timeline: how we got here

The following timeline illustrates key events leading up to the inquest findings:

• July 2023: Gordon McQueen passes away, raising awareness about football-related brain injuries.
• October 2023: Inquest concludes that repeated heading of the ball likely contributed to McQueen's brain disease.
• October 2023: McQueen's daughters publicly voice concerns over heading safety in football.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The inquest's findings are significant as they are among the first to directly link a specific case of dementia to heading a football, following an increasing body of research on the subject. This development has prompted calls for immediate action to protect current and future players.

What was already established

Prior to this inquest, studies had indicated a potential correlation between heading in football and various forms of brain injury. Research published by the Football Association and other sporting bodies had already begun to explore guidelines and recommendations for reducing heading in training and matches.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For families with children involved in football, this finding raises questions about safety protocols and the potential risks of heading the ball. Parents may become more cautious about their children's participation in heading drills or matches.

Businesses and jobs

Football clubs, especially youth academies, may need to reassess their training methods and implement stricter guidelines regarding heading. This could impact coaching jobs and the overall approach to player development in the sport.

Policy and regulation

The UK government and football governing bodies may face pressure to introduce new regulations regarding heading in football, particularly in youth leagues. Upcoming consultations may see stakeholders from various sectors discussing the implications of the inquest findings.

Numbers that matter

• 70: Age of Gordon McQueen at the time of his death.
• 1: The number of high-profile cases linking heading to brain disease highlighted by the inquest.
• Multiple: Previous studies indicating increased risks of neurodegenerative diseases among footballers.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): A progressive neurodegenerative disease caused by repeated head traumas, often found in athletes.
• Heading: The act of striking a football with the head, which has been under scrutiny for potential health risks.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, football clubs and governing bodies may begin discussions regarding immediate changes to training practices, particularly concerning heading drills.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Within the next six months, we may see the introduction of new guidelines or regulations aimed at protecting players, especially at youth levels.

Signals to watch

• Official announcements from football governing bodies regarding changes to training protocols.
• New research findings on the impact of heading in football.
• Public responses from parents, players, and mental health advocates regarding safety concerns.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about changes in training protocols regarding heading in football.
• Encourage open discussions with children about safety in sports.

Don’t

• Ignore any signs of head injuries in players, regardless of the severity.
• Assume that heading is safe without understanding the latest research and guidelines.

Checklist

• Review your child's football training programme for heading practices.
• Discuss safety measures with coaches and clubs.
• Monitor any changes in your child's behaviour or health following sports activities.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the inquest's findings are significant, there remains a degree of uncertainty surrounding the broader implications for all football players. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of heading on brain health, and it is crucial to approach this topic with caution, as not all players may experience similar outcomes.

Bottom line

The inquest into Gordon McQueen’s death highlights a critical issue in football regarding the potential risks associated with heading. As awareness grows, the sport may undergo significant changes to ensure player safety, particularly for younger athletes. It is essential for parents, coaches, and governing bodies to engage in proactive discussions about the health risks linked to heading.

FAQs

What is the main finding of the inquest regarding Gordon McQueen?

The inquest found that repeated heading of a football likely contributed to the brain disease that was a factor in Gordon McQueen's death.

How might this impact young football players?

This finding may lead to changes in training protocols, particularly concerning heading practices, to protect young players from potential brain injuries.

What should parents be aware of following this inquest?

Parents should stay informed about safety guidelines in football and engage in discussions with coaches about heading practices to ensure their children's safety.