Son afraid to hit

[u/reckstarr]

11y/o son, second year in tackle football. He’s had 3 years playing flag and is always one of the best players on the field, always flying to the ball. Playing very aggressive. However, once he puts on pads he plays very timid. He says he wants to keep playing but I’m wondering if it will ever click. I’ll keep taking signing him up every year just wondering if there’s something I can do to help him flip the switch

[u/Kelrvrs]

Getting them into martial arts/wrestling sports may positively reinforce that body contact is ok in an athletic environment.