Cameron targets betting culture

GEELONG Cats superstar Jeremy Cameron will continue as an ambassador for a sports gambling harm minimisation campaign.

Cameron will remain a face of the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation’s Love The Game initiative, which holds a microscope to the prevalence of gambling culture in footy and other sports.

The tagline “love the game, not the odds”, underlines the foundation’s mission to encourage fans to find ways to talk about sport without referring to the betting and starting a conversation about the risks associated with gambling.

The premiership forward and three-time All-Australian said recently becoming a dad had heightened his appreciation of the issue, especially of its impacts on footy’s youngest fans.

“Fatherhood has given me an even greater awareness of the importance of ensuring children grow up in safe, positive environments,” Cameron said.

“Gambling ads are everywhere these days and I’m concerned about the message they’re sending to young people about the value of playing and watching sport.

“When I first started playing footy in Dartmoor, and then later with the Ballarat Rebels, my focus was always on being part of a team and improving my skills to be the best player possible.

“That hasn’t changed. I have never considered the odds of winning a match or how my performance might be pivotal to the outcome of a multi, and I don’t want my daughter to grow up in an environment where betting on sport is accepted as normal.

“I’m fortunate to be part of such a family friendly club where teaching kids to love the game, not the odds is a priority. I’m also proud Geelong says no to gambling sponsorships and that there are no sports betting ads at the Cattery during home games.”

VRGF CEO Shane Lucas said the problem was becoming more widespread across different sports and levels of competition.

“Jeremy has been a fantastic ambassador for Love the Game and we are delighted to continue our partnership with him and the Cats,” Mr Lucas said.

“Since 2012, gambling industry expenditure on ads has more than tripled and it’s very clear that this does not meet community standards.

“Love the Game seeks to address the saturation levels of gambling messaging young people are exposed to through industry promotions by showing them that they don’t have to have a bet to enjoy watching a footy match with mates.”