University of Oklahoma Athletics
Compliance Corner: October 2010
October 28, 2010 | Athletics
Oct. 28, 2010
Sports gambling and wagering in the United States is widespread. In 2009 alone, $2.57 billion was legally wagered on Nevada's sports books. The National Gambling Impact Study Commission (NGISC) estimates $380 billion changes hands annually from illegal sports gambling and wagering. However, the NCAA has specific rules regarding gambling and sports wagering meant to deter individuals involved with college athletics from taking part. It is important to remember that gambling activities can lead to severe consequences, such as: loss of eligibility, debt, criminal charges, or even prison time.
The NCAA prohibits student-athletes, athletics department staff, and university staff who have responsibilities within or over the athletics department and staff members at the conference offices from participating in sports wagering activities. A wager is defined by the NCAA as any agreement in which an individual or entity agrees to give up an item of value (e.g. cash, shirt, dinner, etc.) in exchange for the possibility of gaining another item of value.
Sports wagering includes placing, accepting or soliciting a wager (on a staff member's or student-athlete's own behalf or on the behalf of others) of any type with any individual or organization on any intercollegiate, amateur or professional team or contest. Forms of sports wagering include, but are not limited to:
• The use of a bookmaker or parlay card;
• Internet sports wagering;
• Auctions in which bids are placed on teams, individuals, or contests; and
• Pools or fantasy leagues in which an entry fee is required and there is an opportunity to win a prize
Sports wagering is not allowed on any institutional practice activity or any competition (intercollegiate, amateur or professional) in a sport in which the NCAA sponsors a championship, bowl subdivision football and in emerging sports for women. For example, an individual that is a member of one of the groups listed above would not be allowed to wager on a professional football game.
The NCAA has a zero tolerance policy for student-athletes that participate in sports wagering activities. A student-athlete who participates in any sports wagering activity involving their own institution shall permanently lose all remaining eligibility. A student-athlete who participates in other sports wagering activities shall forfeit a minimum of one year of eligibility.
We hope you find this information helpful and as always, please contact the Athletics Compliance Department at (405) 325-7004 with any questions. We appreciate your support of OU athletics and your help in ensuring we operate within NCAA rules and regulations.
Related Links: OU Compliance Online
