Mainly because I thought the coaching was suspect (at least in our area). Our policy was that they could play football when they were eligible to play for a school team that provided some level of qualification for coaches, trainers, and support staff. Wasn't an issue at all for my oldest and youngest, as they had no interest in actually playing. But all three have played soccer since they were about four years old (and continue to do so at various levels).

My own football playing experience was pretty much the opposite of what my wife and adopted as a policy for our own sons. I started at a young age in "midget league" and gave it up in middle school for a number of reasons. I'm 50 years old now and currently have some arthritis issues that appear to be directly related to injuries I sustained while playing football as a kid. I honestly don't regret the choices I made way back when, but I would like for my sons to avoid the issues I'm having now.