Leicester Riders Forge Groundbreaking Partnership with Ygam to Safeguard Youth
The Leicester Riders basketball team has announced a partnership with the gambling harm charity Ygam.
A Landmark Collaboration in British Basketball
The partnership between Leicester Riders and Ygam represents a major development in the realm of British sports, as it is the first time a basketball team in the country has teamed up with a charity dedicated to gambling harm prevention.
Ygam’s Role in the Partnership
Sacha Kent, Programme Lead for Education, Sports and Youth at Ygam, expressed the charity’s enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are honoured 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.”
Ygam’s involvement aims to bolster the Riders’ efforts in equipping young athletes with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate potential risks associated with gaming and gambling.
Leicester Riders’ Commitment to Youth Development
The Riders’ dedication to youth development extends far beyond the basketball court.
Through their Foundation’s Academy and partnerships with Charnwood College and Loughborough University, the club has established a strong presence in the local community, reaching nearly 20,000 young people.
This collaboration with Ygam will further enhance the Riders’ ability to provide essential education on the dangers of gaming and gambling, ensuring that the young people under their guidance are well-prepared for future challenges.
Charity of the Year and Long-Term Impact
For the 24/25 season, Ygam has been named Leicester Riders ‘Charity of the Year,’ solidifying the partnership’s importance to both organizations.
Simon Winfield, Interim CEO of Leicester Riders, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, 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.”
Winfield also highlighted the club’s responsibility to ensure the well-being and long-term success of the young people in their care, both within their sporting programs and through broader community outreach.
