Hi Dean,

I can definitely empathize with your position, being an athlete myself (and loathe to give it up). I actually joined a recreational football/soccer team this winter a few times, under the condition that no one on the team would care that I absolutely would not take a header (I wouldn't do it regardless, but if they cared I simply wouldn't play). I ducked and dodged a number of balls, including at least one which could have gone straight into the goal if not for our keeper, but the league was fun and they were happy to keep me out of harm's way. If you play with an easy-going group like that, once you're healed, you may be able to enjoy it a bit. And don't be afraid to wear a scrumcap to play football - it's good enough for Peter Cech!