EPIC Risk Management will work with the UCFB’s Global Institute of Sport (GIS) to examine the impacts of gambling-related harms on sports development. 

The partnership will see the safer gambling and harm minimisation consultancy become an official partner of GIS – the UCFB’s Masters Degree program for professional sports management.

Both organisations have pledged to bring together industry leaders from around the globe to understand the current challenges, opportunities and threats, creating informed research that can support the wider sports industry and ensure that the risks of gambling and addiction are minimised.  

“Problem gambling can affect any individual from any walk of life, but several academic studies have reached the same finding that athletes are up to four times more likely to suffer its consequences,” explained John Millington, senior director at EPIC Risk Management.

“We are also looking forward to offering the students at UCFB and GIS insight and support on these risks, to help them as individuals as well as in their professional careers.”

Operating since 2013, EPIC has established its research capabilities across the highest risk disciplines related to gambling harms. EPIC currently operates within 27 national jurisdictions to improve harm minimisation programmes and improve staff training for licensed operators.

Joining the GIS, EPIC seeks to equip future sports leaders with a deeper understanding of gambling harms and their impact on the sports and its network of stakeholders. 

Welcoming EPIC, GIS president Sharona Friedman added: “At UCFB and GIS, we aspire to both learn from and support the industry to make informed decisions on how to address any challenges that present themselves.

“With the help of EPIC Risk Management, we want to be part of the solution to mitigating the risks of problem gambling by gathering research, engaging with industry leaders and providing recommendations for good practice.

“We’re also pleased to have been unveiled as EPIC’s official education partner; this arrangement will include EPIC offering our students advice on the risks that gambling can present and how to mitigate against potential pitfalls. We’re excited to grow our close relationship with EPIC and make a positive difference within the industry together.”