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Reclaim the Game, a New South Wales Government initiative, will allow South Sydney Rabbitohs fans to enjoy more NRL games and less advertising for sports betting.
The two extensions follow a successful partnership with Reclaim the Game that lasted for over two years. Both communities have made significant contributions to changing attitudes about sports betting in their respective localities.
The survey 2023 Reclaim the Game shows that Rabbitohs, Bulldogs fans are much more aware now of where they can get help with gambling issues.
Since the formation of the partnerships, members of the community and their fans have become more aware of GambleAware’s services. Around one third of Rabbitohs, Bulldogs, and other teams supporters are now familiar with the website and helpline.
Both clubs have agreed to continue their opposition to betting advertisements by not displaying betting ads during their home matches, to promote Reclaim the Game via their communication channels, and to continue educating players, staff, and fans on gambling risks.
This Friday, March 29th, the Rabbitohs will face off against the Bulldogs at Accor Stadium Homebush.
Reclaim the Game, a program launched by the New South Wales Government in 2020, has been a great success. It now boasts eleven partners from five different codes, including AFL and A-League football, cricket, NBL, and NRL. The initiative reached millions of people through more than 250 games on TV and in stadiums. Visit www. Gambleaware. nsw. gov. au/resources-and-education/awareness-campaigns/reclaim-the-game. GambleAware offers free, confidential support and advice 24/7 to anyone who needs it.
Alison Parkinson, Director of the Office of Responsible Gambling said that NRL games attract large crowds and are covered extensively by the media. The NRL is heavily intertwined in betting advertising and sponsorships which increases the risk of harm to gambling among fans. The Rabbitohs, Bulldogs and other teams have led the fight against betting ads that are oversaturated in the NRL. This has helped to make game days more family-friendly.
Family traditions can influence support for a team and attitudes toward gambling are also passed down from generation to generation. We are happy to see that the Rabbitohs and Bulldogs have taken a stand on this issue and highlighted the harms gambling can do to individuals, families, and society.
Blake Solly said, “We’re thrilled to extend our relationship with Reclaim The Game.” Its commitment to be part of a social movement that is positive aligns with our club’s values and we are excited about continuing to work together to challenge gambling as a normal part in sport.
Aaron Warburton said that the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Chief Executive Officer had joined forces with Reclaim The Game in 2022 to say no advertising for sports betting. It was a unique partnership and one that we are very proud of. We challenged the idea that betting is part of sports.
“Rugby league offers one of the most exciting sporting experiences and we believe that members and fans should have the freedom to enjoy and watch this game without being bombarded by sports betting advertisements. Our game is so popular because of the contests, rivalries and skills that make it exciting. We couldn’t say it better than saying, “Don’t let betting take you away from it.”
