The NCAA has introduced a new multi-media feature on the perils of sports wagering. Launched to coincide with the basketball tournaments, the tool uses video, audio and other educational materials to explore the consequences and dangers associated with betting on sports.

“We continue to try to find new and creative ways to get this information to our student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and even the general public,” said Rachel Newman Baker, director of agents gambling and amateurism services. “By using technology and various media outlets, our hope is to try to reach as broad of an audience as possible with such an important message.”

The feature explains the Association’s stance on sports wagering and also explores real-life stories of those affected by gambling. Dick Vitale, Damon Evans and several basketball coaches make appearances. CBS commentator Clark Kellogg and ESPN contributor Beth Mullins host one of the videos.

Newman Baker says March is an important time of year for this type of educational outreach. “There are several times throughout the year when gambling skyrockets to the forefront of everyone’s radar, and March Madness is definitely one of them,” she said. She hopes this feature will help student-athletes, coaches and administrators understand that “participation in sports wagering can have a detrimental impact on their athletics career.  We want people to realize that money and gambling do not have to be involved for our games to be exciting and fun.”

Click here to launch the multi-media feature.