The relationship between the Irish League and gambling

Aaron Hogg, a former Irish League player, reflects on his 20-year career and the onset of his gambling addiction. At the age of 15, Hogg's first experience with gambling involved fruit machines and pool playing. As he progressed into the men's football league with Crusaders, he began betting on matches with teammates. Hogg admits that gambling became his escape from the pressures of football, but it ultimately led to debt, broken relationships, and severe depression.

Hogg is now part of the Irish League's Gambling Support Group (GSG), which aims to assist players struggling with gambling issues. This initiative comes as betting companies have increased their sponsorship of the Irish Premiership, with the men's and women's leagues and regional tournaments receiving financial support from these companies.

The Irish FA has regulations in place prohibiting players from placing bets on their teams or leagues, and the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) is working alongside the Irish FA and former players to support the GSG, focusing on education and resources. Michael Carvill, head of the PFA in Northern Ireland, has observed similar issues among players and emphasizes the need for awareness and treatment.

In recent years, the accessibility of gambling through smartphones and online platforms has made the issue more prevalent, particularly among young footballers. While traditional forms of betting have largely disappeared, new forms such as prize websites and competitions have emerged, posing additional risks. Despite the ban on betting sponsorship on the front of shirts in the English Premier League, the Irish Premiership continues to be sponsored by betting companies, with three clubs - Glentoran, Cliftonville, and Crusaders - being sponsored on both the front and back of their shirts.