In a recent move to address a growing concern in the sports world, Ohio has launched the “More Than A Bet” campaign. This initiative, spearheaded by Ohio for Responsible Gambling (ORG), aims to combat the troubling trend of athlete harassment linked to gambling. As part of this campaign, an online resource has been developed to support not only athletes and coaches but also counselors, campus life leaders, and the general public in understanding the consequences of gambling-related harassment.
Objective and Resources
The primary goal of the “More Than A Bet” campaign is to shed light on the issue of harassment faced by athletes due to gambling activities. According to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), a staggering one in three high-profile athletes encounters abusive messages from individuals with betting interests. Notably, 90 percent of this harassment occurs online or through social media platforms.
Tom Stickrath, chairman of the Ohio Casino Control Commission, emphasized the importance of the campaign, stating, “These young athletes are more than a bet. The mental toll of online harassment is unacceptable. By learning about the issue and supporting student-athletes, we can change the narrative.”
The campaign’s online resource is designed to educate various stakeholders about the issue. Coaches and athletes will have access to tools and information to better navigate and combat harassment. Additionally, counselors and campus leaders will gain insights into how to support affected individuals effectively.
Mental Health Concerns
The mental health of athletes can be significantly affected by online harassment linked to gambling. The pressure and abuse stemming from betting interests can lead to severe psychological stress and anxiety. The campaign’s focus on this aspect underscores the need for increased awareness and support systems.
Athletes, particularly those in high-profile roles, are vulnerable to harassment due to their visibility. The abusive messages they receive can vary from derogatory comments to threats, often fueled by the outcomes of bets placed on their performances.
Overall Betting Handle
In June, Ohio’s sports betting handle reached $530.6 million. This figure marks a 13.4 percent decrease from May’s handle but represents a notable 46 percent increase compared to the same month last year. The dip from May can be attributed to various factors, including seasonal fluctuations and changes in sports schedules.
Revenue and Operator Winnings
The adjusted gross sports betting revenue for June stood at $51.3 million, reflecting a 24 percent decline from May. However, operator winnings saw a significant year-over-year increase of 56.8 percent. This suggests that while revenue may have decreased month-over-month, operators are experiencing higher profitability compared to the previous year.
Distribution of Wagering
The majority of sports betting activity in Ohio was conducted through the state’s 15 retail sportsbooks and 19 sports betting apps. Kiosks managed by the Ohio Lottery contributed a smaller share, with a handle of $814,200 and adjusted gross revenue of $49,600.
Tax Revenue and State Benefits
Ohio’s sports betting sector generated nearly $10.3 million in taxes for the state in June. This brings the year-to-date total to $87.6 million. The tax revenue from sports betting plays a crucial role in supporting various state-funded programs and initiatives.
The launch of the “More Than A Bet” campaign marks a significant step towards addressing the issue of athlete harassment linked to gambling. By providing valuable resources and raising awareness, the campaign aims to mitigate the negative impact on athletes’ mental health. Concurrently, Ohio’s sports betting figures reveal a dynamic landscape with fluctuations in handle and revenue, but with promising growth compared to the previous year.