In an inspiring move set to resonate throughout the sports community, the Leicester Riders have officially announced their new partnership with Ygam, selecting them as the “Charity of the Year” for the 2024/25 season. This strategic alliance not only strengthens the Riders’ commitment to social responsibility but also aims to shine a spotlight on the growing concerns surrounding gaming and gambling within the sporting world.

Leicester Riders Announce Pioneering Partnership with Ygam as Charity of the Year for 2024/25 Season

A Commitment to Youth Well-being: The Core of the Partnership

The partnership between Leicester Riders and Ygam is rooted in a shared mission: to protect and educate young people about the risks associated with gaming and gambling. With recent statistics from the Gambling Commission revealing that 40% of 11 to 17-year-olds have engaged in some form of gambling in the past year, the importance of this initiative cannot be overstated. Additionally, basketball has been identified as one of the sports with the highest gambling participation rates among young adults aged 18-24 in the UK, further emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.

The collaboration will see Ygam working closely with Leicester Riders to implement a series of initiatives designed to raise awareness and educate the community. These efforts will include dedicated home games, awareness-raising events, and fundraising activities throughout the season, ensuring that the message reaches as wide an audience as possible.

Empowering Coaches and Staff Through Education

A key component of this partnership is the comprehensive training program that will be provided to all coaches and staff associated with Leicester Riders. Ygam’s City & Guilds Assured CPD training will equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to identify and address the risks associated with gaming and gambling. This training is not just a tick-box exercise; it is a vital tool in the Riders’ arsenal to ensure the safety and well-being of their players, both on and off the court.

Simon Winfield, Interim CEO of Leicester Riders, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We’re excited to be working with Ygam. We have a deep admiration for their efforts in promoting gaming and gambling awareness among the youth of today. The Riders organization takes seriously its responsibility to the young people who have entrusted us with their futures, both at Charnwood College and Loughborough University. A large part of that responsibility is ensuring that they are well set up for life beyond the Riders.”

Winfield’s words underscore the club’s commitment to its players’ holistic development, recognizing that their responsibilities extend far beyond the court. By partnering with Ygam, Leicester Riders are taking proactive steps to safeguard the futures of the young people under their care.

Raising Awareness Through Dedicated Events

The partnership will also see a series of dedicated events and initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the potential risks associated with gaming and gambling. These events will be strategically integrated into the Riders’ season, ensuring maximum visibility and impact. From themed home games to interactive workshops, these initiatives will engage fans, players, and the wider community in meaningful discussions about the dangers of gaming and gambling.

Sacha Kent, Programme Lead for Education, Sports, and Youth at Ygam, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating, “We are honored to partner with Leicester Riders for the upcoming season and extend our reach within the sport of basketball. With gaming and gambling so heavily intertwined with professional sports, it is vital that we are doing all we can to safeguard all young people who participate in the sport they love.”

Kent’s statement reflects the growing concern within the sporting community about the influence of gaming and gambling. By partnering with Leicester Riders, Ygam is not only raising awareness but also taking concrete steps to address these issues head-on.

The Broader Impact on the Community

The impact of this partnership extends beyond the players and staff of Leicester Riders. By bringing the conversation about gaming and gambling to the forefront, this collaboration has the potential to influence the broader community. Parents, educators, and young people alike will benefit from the increased awareness and understanding of the risks associated with these activities.

The partnership also highlights the important role that sports organizations can play in addressing social issues. By leveraging their platforms and influence, clubs like Leicester Riders can drive positive change and make a meaningful difference in the lives of their fans and communities.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Leicester Riders and Ygam Partnership

As the 2024/25 season progresses, the partnership between Leicester Riders and Ygam is expected to grow and evolve. With a strong foundation of shared values and a commitment to youth well-being, this collaboration is poised to make a lasting impact. The initiatives planned for this season are just the beginning, with both organizations looking forward to a long-term partnership that will continue to raise awareness and protect young people from the risks associated with gaming and gambling.

The success of this partnership will be measured not only by the number of events held or funds raised but by the lives positively impacted by the work of Ygam and Leicester Riders. By prioritizing education, awareness, and proactive intervention, this collaboration sets a powerful example for other sports organizations to follow.

Conclusion: A Partnership for Positive Change

In an era where the lines between gaming, gambling, and sports are increasingly blurred, the partnership between Leicester Riders and Ygam stands out as a beacon of responsibility and commitment. Through their collaboration, both organizations are taking a stand to protect young people and ensure their futures are bright, healthy, and free from the potential dangers of gaming and gambling.

FAQs About Leicester Riders and Ygam Partnership

1. What is the partnership between Leicester Riders and Ygam?

The Leicester Riders have partnered with Ygam (Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust), designating them as the “Charity of the Year” for the 2024/25 season. This collaboration aims to raise awareness about the risks associated with gaming and gambling, particularly among young people involved in sports.

2. Why did Leicester Riders choose Ygam as their Charity of the Year?

Leicester Riders chose Ygam due to their shared commitment to protecting and educating young people about the dangers of gaming and gambling. With significant concerns surrounding these issues in the sporting world, the partnership aims to proactively address and mitigate these risks.

3. What initiatives will be part of this partnership?

The partnership will include various initiatives such as dedicated home games, awareness-raising events, and fundraising activities throughout the 2024/25 season. Additionally, Ygam will provide City & Guilds Assured CPD training for all coaches and staff associated with the club.

4. How does the partnership benefit the community?

The partnership aims to benefit the community by increasing awareness and understanding of the risks associated with gaming and gambling. This includes educating parents, educators, and young people, ensuring a broader impact beyond the immediate sports environment.

5. What training will be provided to Leicester Riders’ staff and coaches?

All Leicester Riders’ staff and coaches will receive Ygam’s City & Guilds Assured CPD training. This training will equip them with the knowledge and skills to identify and address the risks of gaming and gambling, ensuring the safety and well-being of the players.

6. Why is this partnership important for young people involved in sports?

This partnership is crucial because recent data shows a high level of gambling participation among young people, particularly those aged 11-17. With basketball identified as one of the sports with the highest gambling rates among young adults, the partnership addresses these risks and promotes safer practices.

7. How will the partnership impact Leicester Riders’ season?

The partnership will be integrated into Leicester Riders’ 2024/25 season through themed events, awareness campaigns, and training initiatives. These efforts are designed to ensure that the partnership’s message reaches a wide audience and has a lasting impact.

8. What are the long-term goals of the Leicester Riders and Ygam partnership?

The long-term goals of this partnership are to raise sustained awareness about the dangers of gaming and gambling, protect young athletes, and create a safer, more informed sporting environment. Both organizations hope to continue this collaboration beyond the 2024/25 season, making a lasting positive impact.

9. How does the partnership align with Leicester Riders’ values?

The partnership aligns with Leicester Riders’ values by emphasizing their responsibility to the young people who trust them with their futures. By focusing on education and well-being, the Riders demonstrate their commitment to the holistic development of their players, both on and off the court.