5BTC or 111% + 111 Free Spins!
New players only. Exclusive 111% Welcome Bonus + 111 Free Spins
Ohio for Responsible Gambling (ORG) has launched a new campaign aimed at addressing the rise in harassment of student-athletes, both online and in-person. The initiative, called More Than a Bet, seeks to improve the culture surrounding sports and online betting by offering resources to athletes, coaches, and others involved in collegiate sports.
The campaign focuses on educating coaches, athletes, counselors, and the public about the harmful effects of gambling-related harassment. “These young athletes are more than a bet,” said Tom Stickrath, Chairman of the Ohio Casino Control Commission. He emphasized the serious impact of harassment, stating, “The mental toll of online harassment is unacceptable. By learning about the issue and supporting student-athletes, we can change the narrative.”
More Than a Bet provides a range of online resources that help coaches and athletes navigate the complex issue of harassment. It also supports campus leaders, counselors, and the broader public in understanding the broader consequences of such behaviors in sports.
Statistics from the NCAA highlight the severity of the problem. One in three high-profile athletes receives abusive messages from individuals with betting interests. The vast majority, about 90%, of this harassment occurs online or through social media platforms. The National Association reports that 15%-25% of all athlete abuse during sporting events is linked to gambling.
To address this, More Than a Bet includes specific guidance for college coaches to help protect athletes from harmful online comments. The resource aims to reassure athletes that they are not alone and provides tools to help them deal with these new challenges. It also equips campus life leaders and counselors with the knowledge to implement the program within their institutions.
Additionally, More Than a Bet features an anonymous online quiz that helps individuals assess their risk of developing a gambling disorder. This tool is useful for those concerned about their own betting behaviors or those of someone they know.