New Program Aims to Teach Student-Athletes About Gambling Risks

The Responsible Gaming Council (RGC) has teamed up with the NFL to launch a gambling education program specifically designed for university and college student-athletes in Canada. The initiative aims to provide these athletes with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about gambling while understanding the risks involved.

The program focuses on several key areas: the dangers of risky gambling behavior, how to recognize signs of gambling-related harm, its potential impact, and the resources available for those in need of help. The course will be tailored to resonate with the student-athlete audience, while RGC will ensure trainers are fully equipped to deliver the content effectively.

The program will begin with a pilot phase at eight Canadian universities and colleges during the upcoming spring semester. By the 2025-26 academic year, the initiative is expected to expand to 30 institutions. The goal is to assess the program’s impact thoroughly to ensure it meets its objectives.

This effort builds on the NFL’s ongoing commitment to promoting responsible gambling. In August last year, the league extended its partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), allocating $6.4 million to support gambling prevention services and responsible gambling initiatives. The NFL initially made a $6.2 million grant in October 2021, marking the largest single donation in NCPG’s history.

Sarah McCarthy, CEO of the Responsible Gaming Council, emphasized the unique challenges faced by student-athletes:

“Student-athletes face unique pressures from academics, athletics, and the accessibility of sports betting, making them vulnerable to risky gambling behaviors. Our partnership with the NFL is a crucial step in supporting this group by providing the education and tools needed to make informed decisions. Early responsible gambling education helps student-athletes build capacities to succeed both on and off the field.”

Anna Isaacson, the NFL’s SVP of Social Responsibility, highlighted the importance of the collaboration:

“We are proud to support the Responsible Gambling Council in this important initiative. Our shared goal is to equip these student-athletes with the tools and knowledge to navigate gambling risks, fostering a safer and more responsible environment. We also hope to gain insights that will be invaluable in shaping future responsible gambling efforts to benefit all those who play and engage with our game as fans.”

The training program will feature an interactive session designed specifically for student-athletes. It will include videos, hands-on activities, and practical tips to promote responsible gambling practices. After completing the session, participants will:

• Gain an understanding of gambling risks, odds, and why losses tend to outweigh wins over time.
• Learn about their vulnerability to risky gambling behaviors as student-athletes.
• Be able to recognize the signs of gambling-related harm and its effects on themselves and those around them.
• Explore resources available to help those affected by gambling-related issues.

This initiative reflects the NFL’s dedication to promoting responsible gambling and addressing the need for resources in both prevention and support. It aligns with the league’s ongoing efforts, such as its partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling, which focuses on enhancing prevention services and responsible gambling initiatives across the U.S.