Virginia Council on Problem Gambling Warns Super Bowl Fans about Sunday

A record-setting $1.76 billion is estimated to be gambled on Super Bowl 60, and now the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling (VCPG) is issuing a word of caution to caught-in-the-moment sports gamblers. 

VCPG Issues Word of Warning to Super Bowl Fans in Virginia 

As the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks are gearing up for the game of their lives on Sunday, February 8, the VCPG believes that sports fans ought to plan ahead and not spend excessively on gambling.

According to a Paysafe study, at least 27% of sports fans will be doing so in their own estimate, but more may end up tempted to place an extra amount. Commenting onthe upcoming event, VCPG president Carolyn Hawley said:

“Before wagering on any aspect of the Super Bowl, it’s important to consider the risks. Set limits for the length of time you want to play at a betting kiosk or on a mobile device and how much money you are willing to lose.”

VCPG president Carolyn Hawley

The VCPG has reiterated the common guidelines for ensuring that consumers do not end up spending more than they originally intended to. 

Among the recommendations are to ensure that a resident is not letting their gambling behavior interfere with family, friends, work, or school. Gambling as a form of escapism, such as coping with emotional or physical pain, is also discouraged.

Players and specifically sports bettors need to accept that they will end up losing some of their bets, and must not try to chase those.

The VCPG also reminds sports fans and gamblers not to spend money that they have otherwise allocated for bills on gambling, nor borrow money to sustain their habit.