At 13, Roy Heaney was knocked unconscious—and sent back into the game. Decades later, he’s speaking up about the head injuries athletes were taught to shrug off.

What happens when “get up and carry on” becomes the rule—even after a head injury?

Follow The HeadRush Podcast for honest conversations about brain health, resilience, and hope. Share this episode with a parent, coach, athlete, or someone living with brain injury.

In Part 1, former professional footballer and rugby league player Roy Heaney joins former NFL player Paul Frase to share his journey through Liverpool’s youth system, a devastating leg break, and his determination to rebuild his career with Bolton Wanderers.

Behind that determination was a culture of playing through injuries. Roy recalls being knocked unconscious at 13, returning to play after serious head injuries, and the pressure athletes face to keep their place.

Roy and Paul discuss repeated head impacts, CTE awareness, the UK player litigation Roy describes, and why education must reach parents, teachers, and coaches at the grassroots level. Roy also shares how family support and changes to his daily habits have helped him feel better and keep making memories.

An honest conversation about protecting the next generation—and helping those already affected cope and find hope.

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