The Effectiveness of Headgear in Soccer

Over the past 9 months, I have been researching the physics behind heading a soccer ball and how it can lead to concussions. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury which occurs from a large impact to the head. They are very common in sports such as football and soccer. As a member of the Sonoma State women’s soccer team, this is a risk I face every day and have experienced first-hand. I wanted to learn about the factors that can increase the possibility of a concussion and if there are any preventions that really are effective. I am very excited about my research and it has been amazing to focus on something that involves both of my passions: physics and soccer.

This project has been all about learning and adapting to new circumstances. It was a great opportunity for problem solving and research exposure that will help me in the future as I begin searching for a job. Before entering the research field, I will be going to Europe to try out for some professional teams in hopes of having the opportunity to play abroad for a year or so. After that I hope to return to California and work in mechanical engineering or optics.