Senco, I think you already know the right answer but you just don't like it so you're struggling with it. Which is understandable. If this was a standard GP saying this about your son then I'd definitely say get a 2nd opinion, research, etc... But if a specialist is telling you this, well, that's why they're a specialist. Of course he/she could still be just trying to cover their own arse but really, the guilt as kato said would be unimaginable if lightning did strike and something happened to your son.
I can only speak for myself but there is just no way I'd let him play football, no matter how much he screamed about it. Too many other sports for him to play. When he was a teenager and could start to better understand the situation and possible consequences then maybe I'd be more willing to debate the issue with him. But when they're this young, that's why they need us to make the tough, sometimes unpopular choices. Even if we don't like the choice either. xoxo
ironic that other renal specialist after a study find that a ban from contact sports is unwarranted though dont ya think, and the main reason some specialist recommend not playing contact sports was for fear of repercussions against them.
I'm not in the camp of thinking you should live your life for fear of what might happen. but agree he should be old enough to make the decision hisself.
If he were to get hurt you'd likely be in jail for child endangerment. DA's just looking for easy cases like this to win. Tread lightly Senco, you seem very important here at GL.