Teenagers are diving into the world of sports betting nationwide, risking more than just their allowance as online gambling is becoming easier to access.
A survey of 200 Bexley High School students revealed that 19% of students gamble on sports.
Junior Luke Watkins* explained the reason he began betting on sports was because the hobby aligns with his interests, and he enjoys making money.
“The more you do it, the more you think about it, which makes you want to keep on winning,” he added.
Before tapping in on the sports betting apps, Watkins said he also did his research on sports betting.
“I looked up many websites to make sure that hopefully nothing would happen to me,” he explained.
According to the Cincinnati Bar Association website, sports betting apps may not always verify someone is 21 years of age or over, so it has become easier to bet illegally.
Furthermore, it is a felony to bet on a sports event under the age of 21, according to the Ohio Legislative Service Commission. Funkhouser Law states the court can impose a penalty of up to 12 months in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.
Despite potential consequences, Watkins said sports betting makes him feel more attached to what is going on during games.
“I’m more focused on plays and the stats of each player,” he said. “However, it’s easy to become too invested.”
He explained one time he placed a bet he never thought was going to cash, so he continued betting and ended up losing $200.
“I got so sucked into the game that I didn’t realize how much money I lost, and the next morning when my parents found out, I was grounded for three months,” he added.
The survey of Bexley students showed 44% of students who bet on sports have lost more than they have won, and 26% of students who gamble have lost at least $100.
Sophomore Ben Relish* said he thinks there is no point to sports betting.
“It may seem fun, but it’s illegal,” Relish said. “In the end, it is addicting and people don’t know when to stop.”
With a click of a button, teens are able to place bets and it can quickly get out of control, he said.
“Once you get going, it’s so easy to get sucked in, especially as a high schooler,” he added.
The survey also showed 53% of students who gamble are aware of the legal consequences of gambling underage.
Senior Sammy Flemming* said sports betting is common among his friends, but he doesn’t partake in it.
“In most situations, at least one person in my friend group is betting on a game,” he explained. “However, none of my friends have ever won enough money to make it worth it.”
Watkins said even though he used to enjoy betting, after he lost so much money, it did more harm than good.
“My parents taught me that even if you have the money to spend, it isn’t worth it to lose it,” he added.
*Names have been changed
