Newswise — Super Bowl Sunday is coming, and it's not just about parties, commercials and the big game. For many, it also is a day for gambling. Central Michigan University recreation, parks and leisure services administration faculty member Tim Otteman cautions that the simple act of buying a Super Bowl square may eventually lead to a larger issue. Among Otteman's initial thoughts:
Regarding the popularity of sports gambling:"Sports gambling is the recreational choice of this generation. From filling out NCAA tournament brackets to wagering via Internet sites to betting with a local bookmaker, sports gambling is one of the most popular sport-related activities in the U.S. Buying a Super Bowl square is one avenue utilized by Americans to bet on the single most popular one-day event in our country."
Regarding problem gambling:"While buying a $2 or $5 Super Bowl square seems like a harmless diversion and a way to have a rooting interest in this annual event, in reality it may potentially serve as the gateway to involvement with more dangerous levels of participation. A drug addict cannot become addicted until they try their first drug. Similarly, gambling addiction does not occur without placing the first bet or wager. Frequently, the first involvement with sports gambling is the purchase of a Super Bowl square or the completion of an NCAA tournament bracket. Both of these gambling opportunities require very little sports or gambling knowledge, which makes them even more dangerous, because financial success without an understanding of why or how may create a false sense of security for the gambler."
Otteman is an authority in the areas of sports gambling, sports administration and management, commercial recreation, and recreational programming. He also has leisure activities expertise with an emphasis on games.
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