VA in talks with Minister Sterk about brain injury in sport

At the invitation of Minister for Sport Sterk, VA director Farid Gamei spoke this week with the minister and other sports federations about brain injury in sport. The meeting was informative and formed part of a process that has been running for some time.

Brain injury in sport, and above all the risks for children who are still growing, is receiving increasing attention. More and more is becoming known about it , which means more and more sports federations recognise the importance of discussing this subject. In football, heading the ball is being restricted more and more. In rugby, the concussion protocol has been tightened. Combat sports, which gradually banned head contact in youth competitions, have been a steady partner for years in discussions within the sporting world and in contacts with politicians.

On the initiative of NOC*NSF, various federations have spoken several times about experiences in different sports, such as football, rugby, cycling, boxing and the combat sports that fall under the VA. Last autumn, a meeting followed with the then State Secretary for Sport, Judith Tielen. From a political perspective, she conveyed the message that sport may regulate itself for the time being in the area of brain injury, but that it is important that further steps are taken to prevent problems.

This week's meeting with Minister for Sport Mirjam Sterk was informative in nature. The sporting world was asked to update her on the steps taken in recent times to limit or prevent brain injury in sport.

On behalf of the VA, director Farid Gamei said that the conversation about head contact in combat sports is held every day. Talks are being held with the Dutch combat sports federation NVB about a possible adjustment of the ban on head contact in youth competitions within clear safety frameworks, which could contribute to better preparation of top talents for an elite sporting career. Gamei also explained that the VA regularly shares knowledge and experience with other sports and with international partners.

A follow-up meeting is expected later this year.

Photo: Michael Deubner via Unsplash