The Australian football organization, Geelong Football Club, has announced its backing of the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation’s campaign, “Love the Game”.
Although no wagering promotions will appear at GMHBA Stadium during their game against the Western Bulldogs, the organization will seize the opportunity to oppose sports wagering. Geelong proudly stands among over 500 Victorian sporting organizations that decline sponsorships from sports betting companies. They stressed that all ten Victorian Australian Football League teams are unified in their dedication to shielding youth from the widespread impact of sports betting marketing.
The organization pointed out the worrisome figure that almost one-third of all sports wagers in Victoria are placed by males between 18 and 24 years old. This is unsurprising considering the continuous barrage of sports betting advertisements during live sports coverage.
Geelong referenced a 2020 study that showed 88% of Victorian sports enthusiasts believe young individuals are oversaturated with gambling promotions. This starkly contrasts with 2011 when a mere $89.7 million was allocated to gambling advertising, compared to a staggering $2.32 billion in 2019.
Geelong’s Head of Commercial Operations, Braith Cox, underscored the organization’s position: “It is crucial for our organization to separate ourselves from gambling and betting, and we take pride in guaranteeing our stadium remains devoid of any sports betting promotions.”
The Geelong Football Club has rejected partnerships with wagering companies. Their aim is to encourage a passion for the sport, particularly among youth, and avoid any connection to gambling.
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