The National Football League (NFL) has teamed up with Canada’s Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) to launch an educational initiative aimed at a group that research identifies as more vulnerable to gambling issues – student-athletes.
“Student-athletes are under unique pressures from their academic and athletic responsibilities, coupled with the easy access to sports betting, which makes them more susceptible to risky gambling behaviors,” explained Sarah McCarthy, CEO of the Responsible Gambling Council.
Addressing Risky Gambling Behaviors
The NFL and RGC are working together to create a responsible gambling program tailored to university and college student-athletes. The initiative will begin with a pilot phase at eight universities and colleges across Canada for the spring semester of 2025.
“Our partnership with the NFL is a significant step in supporting student-athletes by providing them with the education and tools to make well-informed decisions,” McCarthy said. “By introducing responsible gambling education early, we aim to equip student-athletes with the skills to succeed, both on and off the field.”
Educational Program Benefits
The program will expand in 2025-26 following the pilot, with the Responsible Gambling Council planning to extend it to 30 universities and colleges based on initial feedback.
“We’re committed to providing student-athletes with the resources to navigate gambling risks in a safe and responsible way,” said Anna Isaacson, NFL Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility. “We also look forward to gathering valuable insights that will help shape future responsible gambling initiatives benefiting athletes, fans, and others in our community.”
The Responsible Gambling Council will develop the curriculum, aiming to give student-athletes the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about gambling. The program will also offer “train the trainer” support to ensure those delivering the content are well-equipped with the right tools and information.
The educational sessions will include videos and other interactive materials, helping student-athletes understand gambling risks, recognize signs of gambling harm, and learn about the impact on their families and friends. The program will also highlight their particular vulnerability to gambling traps and provide resources for those facing gambling-related issues.