EPIC Risk Management, a leading British consultancy focusing on preventing gambling harm, has announced the extension of its gambling harm awareness program at the prestigious University of Michigan. Collaborating with the NCAA, EPIC aims to educate student-athletes on the potential risks associated with newly legalized sports wagering and other forms of gambling in the United States.
Awareness Program Details:
EPIC, in partnership with the NCAA, conducts approximately 75 campus visits annually, engaging with thousands of student-athletes across the country. The sessions are designed to raise awareness about the risks associated with legalized sports wagering and other forms of gambling. EPIC’s head of delivery, Mark Potter, draws on his personal experience with gambling harm during his professional sports career to connect with the audience.
Educational Focus:
During the sessions at the University of Michigan, which included around 170 student-athletes and staff members across five sessions over two days, EPIC highlighted the unique challenges faced by student-athletes. These individuals are restricted from participating in most sports wagering activities and sharing information with others interested in betting. The aim is to ensure that students are aware of the regulations and potential pitfalls, encouraging responsible behavior both during and after their college years.
Danielle Davison, Assistant Athletic Director, NCAA Rules and NIL Education, emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity of sports and the well-being of student-athletes. With the growing popularity and legalization of sports betting across states, educational efforts become crucial in safeguarding both the integrity of sports and the individuals involved.
Program Content:
EPIC’s sessions cover various aspects, including statistics showing that athletes are statistically more likely to experience gambling-related harm than the general population. The competitive nature, sporting knowledge, injuries, escapism, and buzz replication contribute to the increased vulnerability of athletes. The program also addresses the interconnectedness of sports betting integrity and potential consequences, such as social media abuse.
Acknowledgments and Funding:
EPIC expressed gratitude to the Entain Foundation US for providing funding that supports visits to colleges, including the University of Michigan. The face-to-face educational approach is considered more effective in conveying the message and creating a positive impact on student-athletes.
EPIC Risk Management’s continued commitment to raising awareness about gambling harm at the University of Michigan underscores the importance of proactive education in the evolving landscape of sports betting. By addressing the specific challenges faced by student-athletes, EPIC contributes to fostering a responsible and informed approach to gambling, ultimately protecting both the integrity of sports and the well-being of those involved.