Football safety is a growing concern not just in New York State, but nationwide as schools across the country are seeing a drastic drop in participation. 

According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, player participation in football has declined by nearly 31,000 players since 2018.

"Advocates for the sport of football are extremely concerned. From what we see here, kids can get hurt in any sport that they play. It doesn't matter what sport, it's just the nature of the sports that we're playing," says Middletown Athletic Director David Coates.

Cuomo signed legislation Tuesday requiring tackle football programs to provide the parents of players with informational packets regarding concussions and sub-concussive blows.

Coach Tim Strenfel says while Middletown's team numbers are holding steady, the more information parents are provided, the better.

"I think having it mandated ... I mean, it’s right there. It’s up to you to read it, it’s up to you to know it, and if you want to come and you want to know, it’s there,” said Strenfel.

Stenfel says football is more than just a game for him, and a lot of other students at Middletown High School, the sport has really changed their lives for the better.

"A lot of these kids, it gives them a route to college, it shows them how to be a leader, how to be a follower sometimes, how to win, how to lose, because these are all life lessons you're going to learn, and if you learn them in high school and you understand them, it’s going to make you a better person when you grow up," Strenfel said.

This legislation requires the informational packets to be available for free on the organization's website.