With sports betting legal in many parts of the country, the time seems right for leadership to provide a commitment to responsible gaming. Growth comes with a reassessment of procedures and needs for any program or organization.
Late last week (Sept. 17) the American Gaming Association (AGA) unveiled a public service announcement (PSA) campaign with NASCAR to provide fans with information on safe betting. NASCAR is the first sports league partner for the Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly PSA campaign. The two organizations will create co-branded content with the “Know When To Pit” slogan, encouraging responsible betting.
“Ensuring that our fans have the resources to bet responsibly is a founding principle of our gaming strategy,” said Scott Warfield, managing director, gaming, NASCAR. “The AGA uniquely understands the convergence of legal betting, sports, and responsible gaming. As sports bettors increasingly engage with NASCAR, we look forward to working together to promote bettor education and resources that help prepare our fans for the rapidly expanding legal sports betting landscape.”
The partnership launched during AGA’s Responsible Gaming Education Week (Sept. 13-19), an annual event held to showcase the gaming industry’s commitment to responsible gaming initiatives, while promoting transparency and gaming literacy to customers.
“Legal sports betting allows fans to engage with their favorite drivers and race teams in new, exciting ways. It is critically important to ensure they are informed about how to do so responsibly,” said Casey Clark, SVP, strategic communications, AGA.
NASCAR will distribute “Know When To Pit” content across social platforms and PSAs on national radio stations. It also launched NASCAR.com/betcenter, which provides fans with information designed to empower them to make informed decisions in the fantasy and gaming space.
The partnership provides a serious nod toward the messaging of betting being an acceptable activity—but through the acknowledgement of following admirable guidelines and responsible game play. The AGA definitely is moving in the right direction for corporate social responsibility, similar to major alcohol and beer brands pushing the “drink responsibly” message. In addition, the AGA and NASCAR contribute to the International Center for Responsible Gaming’s fund to support research on sports wagering. AGA is a founding donor and NASCAR is the first league supporter.
Nicole Schuman is a reporter for PRNEWS. Follow her @buffalogal