A recent NCAA study has uncovered a troubling trend of widespread abuse directed at college athletes on social media platforms. Much of this vitriol is coming from disgruntled sports bettors upset over lost wagers. The report highlights the increasing intersection between sports gambling and the well-being of student-athletes, raising concerns about their safety and mental health.
Alarming Findings from the NCAA Study
The NCAA, in partnership with Signify Group, analyzed thousands of social media posts targeting athletes, coaches, and officials.
Over a few months, they identified more than 5,000 abusive messages, with approximately 12% directly tied to sports betting frustrations. The abuse wasn’t limited to general insults; it often included sexist, racist, and homophobic remarks. Female athletes received 59% more abusive messages than their male counterparts. Major events like March Madness saw a spike in such behavior, accounting for over 70% of the betting-related abusive comments. The study suggests that the real extent of the problem could be even greater, as it did not include direct messages.
The Impact on Athletes and Call for Action
The rise in abuse is taking a toll on student-athletes, prompting calls for immediate intervention.
NCAA President Charlie Baker emphasized the need for stronger protective measures, stating that this study is just the beginning of broader efforts. The organization is in discussions with sportsbooks to limit individual prop bets on college athletes, a move already adopted by some states like Ohio and Maryland. Signify Group’s CEO, Jonathan Hirshler, highlighted the severity of the issue, noting that betting-related messages contribute significantly more abuse now than in previous years. The NCAA aims to collaborate with various stakeholders to mitigate this growing problem and safeguard the well-being of athletes.
