A new athlete-led initiative, GamePlan (www.thegameplanhub.ie), has been launched to tackle gambling related harm in sport.
With online gambling now more accessible than ever, research shows that young people are being exposed at earlier ages, particularly in environments where sport, gaming and gambling intersect. Studies indicate that online gambling among young people in Ireland increases significantly between the ages of 17 and 20, while recent research within elite sport has found that the majority of inter-county players gamble, with a concerning minority experiencing serious problems.
The Gameplan has been developed as an awareness resource designed specifically for sports-oriented audiences from ages 13 – 80. The platform provides simple, interactive and accessible content that helps you understand gambling risks, make informed decisions and know where to get support.
The initiative is fronted by GamblingCare.ie ambassador and Armagh GAA Legend, Oisín McConville and former Professional Rugby Player and Safer Gambling Expert, Mark Potter. Together, they will play a central role in raising awareness and engaging directly with clubs, schools and sporting organisations.
The Gameplan launched today at a special event at the Aviva Stadium and hosted by Tommy Martin, Sports Presenter with Virgin Media, featured a discussion with Ciarán Murphy, Second Captains podcaster and Irish Times GAA columnist; South Dublin Mayor Pamela Kearns; Oisín McConville, who has spoken openly about his own struggles with gambling addiction and now works as an addiction counsellor; and Mark Potter, whose career was impacted by gambling addiction and who now raises awareness through his lived experience.
The panel explored the realities of gambling in sport, the risks facing young people, and the importance on the role of community and safe spaces in preventing gambling related harm.
Speaking at the launch, Mark Potter said:
“Gambling has become part of the background noise in sport, especially online. Young players are growing up with it everywhere, but they’re not being given the right tools to understand the risks. Gameplan is about meeting young people where they are and giving them clear, honest information that actually makes sense in a sporting context.”
Oisín McConville added:
“Traditional education around gambling just doesn’t land with young athletes. Gameplan is different because it’s practical, it’s relevant, and it’s coming from people who understand sport and the pressures that come with it.”
Gameplan is designed for use within sports clubs, schools and youth organisations, with content accessible on any device. The platform can be easily updated and expanded, allowing it to grow alongside the needs of users and partner organisations.
The initiative will work closely with early adopter clubs, schools and sporting bodies, with plans to roll out nationally through ambassador-led engagement, media partnerships and direct collaboration with sporting organisations.
For more information about Gameplan or to get involved, visit www.thegameplanhub.ie
