Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling Urges Fans to Respect the Game
The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling today issued an advisory to college basketball fans to enjoy the play without disrespecting the game. Pat Fowler, Executive Director of the organization explained, "Sports betting has negatively impacted upon the game and has turned the collegiate basketball court into a casino. If a sports fan cannot enjoy the game without placing a wager on it, it's time to seek help." (PRWEB) April 5, 2008 -- The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling today issued an advisory to college basketball fans to enjoy the play without disrespecting the game. Pat Fowler, Executive Director of the organization explained, "Sports betting has negatively impacted upon the game and has turned the collegiate basketball court into a casino. If a sports fan cannot enjoy the game without placing a wager on it, it's time to seek help." In Florida, sports betting is among the top forms of gambling causing the greatest difficulties among adolescents and adults. It also results in other challenges, ranging from financial to legal problems, particularly for those gambling online and with bookies or loan sharks. Betting on sports is illegal in Florida and in every state of the country, except Nevada. Though no one knows for sure, it is estimated that billions of dollars are gambled each year. According to FBI estimates, more than $2.5 billion is illegally wagered on March Madness alone. To counteract this trend, the FCCG is doing its part by joining forces at the college level with the National Collegiate Athletic Association, the Sunshine State Conference - Division II, and others to raise awareness and to urge fans to respect the game. The Agency has also called upon the media to play fairly by ceasing to encourage the illegal activity and discontinue the promotion of lines, spreads, favorites and tips. "It's time we sit back and enjoy the game for what it is and to honor players in a manner they've earned and deserve. If fans cannot watch the Final Four without disrespecting the game, it's time to call the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling's 24-hour confidential HelpLine (888-ADMIT-IT). We're here to help and we don't play games," concluded Fowler. ###
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