Central Coast Mariners have entered a new partnership with the NSW Government’s gambling awareness initiative, Reclaim the Game.
CEO Alyssar Narey said the collaboration marked a significant step in the Mariners’ commitment to promoting safer gambling and fostering a positive sporting culture within the community.
Under the new partnership, the Mariners will turn down sports betting sponsorships and eliminate sports betting advertising at home games across both men’s and women’s A-League teams.
The Mariners will also work to educate fans, players and staff about the risks and harms which can arise from gambling.
Narey said the Mariners were proud to be the first club on the Central Coast to sign on for Reclaim the Game.
“This collaboration underscores our commitment to promoting a healthy and positive environment in sports, where our players and fans can thrive without the influence of gambling,” she said.
“Together, we can create a stronger community and ensure that the joy of the game remains at the forefront.”
Minister for Gaming and Racing, Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said Reclaim the Game had grown since it started in 2020 to include 19 teams across six codes in NSW and had reached millions of sports fans, both on TV and in stadiums.
“Sports betting advertising and sponsorship is just about everywhere. We see it across most codes and many fans don’t know sport without it,” he said.
“All our partners are committed to eliminating sports betting advertising at their home games, and to take action in educating their fans, players and staff about the potential harms of sports betting.
“It’s no secret I’m a big fan of the mighty Mariners, so I am absolutely delighted by this new partnership, which will have a positive impact on the Central Coast.
“The Central Coast has a high rate of gambling participation and by partnering with Reclaim the Game, we hope to remind fans that they can enjoy watching their team without spending their hard-earned money on betting.”
A recent survey conducted by Reclaim the Game suggests that Mariners’ fans are on board with the new partnership. In the survey, 85 per cent of fans agreed that there is too much gambling advertising.
For more information on Reclaim the Game visit: www.gambleaware.nsw.gov.au/resources-and-education/awareness-campaigns/reclaim-the-game
For free and confidential gambling support 24/7 call GambleAware on 1800 858 858.