The American Gaming Association (AGA) has expanded its Have a Game Plan campaign by adding a new pillar, Keep Your Cool. This initiative emphasizes that harassment of athletes, officials, or teams is never acceptable, reinforcing the importance of respect in sports wagering.
Encouraging Responsible Betting Behavior
Keep Your Cool supports the AGA’s mission to educate bettors about responsible gambling practices. Recent AGA research highlights progress, with 66% of Americans finding the gaming industry’s responsible gaming efforts effective, a rise from 59% in 2023.
This sentiment is even stronger among active participants. The data reveals that 85% of sports bettors and 79% of casino players trust these programs. Young bettors, aged 18-24, also show strong support, with 73% acknowledging the value of these initiatives.
AGA President and CEO Bill Miller emphasized the campaign’s growing impact, stating, “Responsible gaming efforts like Have a Game Plan and other proactive efforts by legal operators are resonating with consumers and making a difference.” He added, “‘Keep Your Cool’ builds on this momentum by reminding bettors that a betting result, good or bad, is not an invitation to criticize a team, official or athlete.”
The Have a Game Plan campaign launched in 2019 and initially focused on four pillars: Set a Budget, Keep it Social, Know the Odds, and Play Legally. The latest addition, Keep Your Cool, introduces principles such as Respect the Game and Stay Focused on Having Fun.
NASCAR, an early supporter of the campaign, reiterated its commitment to responsible gaming. NASCAR President Steve Phelps remarked, “‘Keep Your Cool’ reflects our shared commitment to encouraging fans to bet responsibly and maintain a respectful approach to the sport they love.”
The AGA’s expanded initiative underscores its dedication to fostering a safer, more enjoyable betting environment while promoting sportsmanship and accountability.
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