On September 14th, Self-Exclusion Day received a significant boost thanks to a noteworthy collaboration between The New Saints FC and Gamstop. This partnership highlights the club’s commitment to responsible gambling and the promotion of self-exclusion tools. With an impressive 16 JD Cymru Premier championships under their belt, The New Saints leveraged their platform to address gambling issues, demonstrating their dedication to both football and community welfare.
The Partnership: A Powerful Collaboration
The New Saints FC’s partnership with Gamstop was more than a symbolic gesture. It represented a concerted effort to make a real impact on gambling awareness and support.
Match Day Sponsorship Donation
For their JD Cymru Premier match against Barry Town United, which ended in a 4-0 victory for The New Saints, the club made a significant gesture by donating their match-day sponsorship slot to Gamstop. This move integrated the message of responsible gambling into the day’s activities and ensured that the cause received substantial attention.
Custom-Made Warm-Up Shirts
Before the game, the players wore custom-made Gamstop warm-up shirts. This was not just a fashion choice but a deliberate effort to highlight the campaign and bring visibility to the issue of gambling harm. These shirts served as a powerful visual representation of the club’s commitment to the cause.
Promotion Through Various Channels
The initiative was further amplified through the club’s matchday programme and social media platforms. By using these channels, The New Saints ensured that the message reached a broad audience, from dedicated fans to casual observers, effectively spreading awareness about responsible gambling.
Extending the Impact: Beyond the Match
The collaboration between The New Saints and Gamstop extended well beyond the match. A key component of this partnership involves Gamstop, in conjunction with the Addiction Recovery Agency (ARA), providing training sessions to The New Saints Academy. These sessions aim to educate young athletes about gambling risks, how to identify and support problem gamblers, and the practical use of self-exclusion tools. This proactive approach reflects a long-term commitment to addressing gambling-related issues and supports the development of informed, responsible individuals within the sports community.
Statements from Key Figures
The partnership received positive feedback from both Gamstop and The New Saints FC, reflecting the mutual dedication to the cause:
Fiona Palmer, CEO of Gamstop: “The level of support The New Saints provided for Self-Exclusion Day has been above and beyond. Football clubs play a key role in shaping their communities, and it’s fantastic to see TNS take such a proactive stance in supporting individuals who may be struggling with gambling harm. Together, we can ensure that support is available for those who need it.”
Chris Seargeant, Head of Academy at The New Saints FC: “We’re delighted to work with Gamstop and use the power of football to raise awareness about the importance of responsible gambling. As a club, we are always looking for ways to support our players, fans, and the wider community. This partnership is a crucial step in continuing that mission.”
The Broader Context: #TakeBackControl2024
This initiative is part of the larger #TakeBackControl2024 campaign, which sees participation from clubs across all four English leagues, including Premier League teams such as Crystal Palace. The involvement of a diverse range of football clubs in this campaign highlights the growing awareness and commitment within the sport to addressing gambling-related issues. It reflects a collective effort to use the influence of football to promote responsible gambling practices and provide support for those affected.
Impact and Importance
The New Saints FC’s actions underscore the important role that sports organizations can play in addressing social issues. By leveraging their visibility and influence, football clubs have the potential to drive significant awareness and foster positive change. The club’s collaboration with Gamstop serves as a powerful example of how sports can be used as a platform to tackle important societal issues, demonstrating that football can contribute to meaningful, community-oriented initiatives.
The New Saints FC’s partnership with Gamstop on Self-Exclusion Day illustrates a commendable commitment to promoting responsible gambling. Through strategic actions such as donating match-day sponsorships, wearing custom shirts, and utilizing various media platforms, the club has shown a deep dedication to supporting individuals affected by gambling harm. The follow-up training sessions for young athletes further highlight the club’s long-term commitment to the cause, aiming to equip the next generation with the knowledge and tools needed to manage gambling risks effectively.
As the #TakeBackControl2024 campaign continues to gain momentum, the involvement of football clubs in promoting responsible gambling practices serves as a powerful reminder of the positive impact sports can have on societal issues. The New Saints FC’s efforts are a testament to how sports organizations can lead the way in addressing important causes and fostering a supportive community.