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AGA Expands Have A Game Plan with New Pillar: Keep Your Cool

On December 5, 2024, the American Gaming Association (AGA) announced an exciting advancement in its Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly.™ public service campaign. The introduction of the fifth pillar, titled "Keep Your Cool," aims to further promote responsible sports wagering practices while emphasizing the importance of respect within the sports community.

The announcement comes on the heels of encouraging data that reflects the effectiveness of responsible gaming initiatives across America. According to recent surveys, 66% of individuals surveyed believe that the gaming industry's efforts toward responsible gaming are effective—a slight increase from 59% in 2023. Notably, among those who actively engage in gaming activities, 79% of physical casino players and 85% of sports bettors express confidence in these programs, including an impressive 73% of younger bettors aged 18-24.

As Bill Miller, President and CEO of the AGA, stated, "Responsible gaming efforts like Have A Game Plan and other proactive initiatives by legal operators are resonating with consumers and making a difference." He further elaborated that the new “Keep Your Cool” pillar builds on the existing momentum, reinforcing the understanding that the outcome of a bet should never serve as an invitation to criticize teams, officials, or athletes.

Launched in 2019, the Have A Game Plan campaign originally consisted of four foundational pillars:

• - Set a Budget: Establish a financial limit and adhere to it.
• - Keep It Social: Treat betting as a shared, enjoyable activity.
• - Know the Odds: Understand the terminology and risks associated with bets before placing them.
• - Play Legally: Use only regulated, legal betting platforms.

The addition of "Keep Your Cool" enhances these principles by fostering a spirit of sportsmanship and acknowledging the social nature of sports betting. The essential messages include:

• - Respect the Game: Winning and losing are inherent parts of sports betting; negative actions—whether in-person or online—are never appropriate.
• - Stay Focused on Having Fun: Sports betting should primarily be an entertaining endeavor.

NASCAR has taken a prominent role in supporting the Have A Game Plan initiative, and its leadership has highlighted the importance of the new pillar. Steve Phelps, President of NASCAR, articulated the organization's dedication to responsible gaming, stating, "At NASCAR, we believe responsible gaming enhances the overall fan experience. 'Keep Your Cool' reflects our shared commitment to encouraging fans to bet responsibly and maintain a respectful approach to the sport they love."

The response to responsible gaming messaging has never been stronger. The expanded campaign, Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly.™, continues to strive for a safer and more enjoyable betting environment for sports fans across the nation. To further educate the public about responsible gaming practices, interested individuals can visit haveagameplan.org.

About the AGA

The American Gaming Association serves as the national trade group for the U.S. casino industry, advocating for a landscape where legal and regulated gaming can thrive. Representing a diverse membership that includes tribal and commercial casino operators, sports betting and iGaming companies, and numerous suppliers, the AGA plays a critical role in bolstering the industry's growth—supporting approximately 1.8 million jobs and generating $329 billion in economic activity in the country.

About Have A Game Plan® Bet Responsibly™

Launched in 2019, Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly.™ is a nationwide initiative aimed at educating sports fans regarding responsible sports betting practices. The campaign encourages bettors to establish clear budgets, engage socially in betting activities, understand the odds, and wager through trusted, licensed operators. The addition of the “Keep Your Cool” pillar underscores the industry's commitment to fostering both responsible gaming and a safer gambling environment.