Responsible Gambling Council Launches Free Evidence-Informed Training to Protect High School Students from Gambling Harms

Beyond the Game training module now available for download, addressing gambling risks for Ontario student-athletes 

TORONTO, ON – [December 4, 2025] The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC), a trusted expert in gambling harm prevention, is making available a free, evidence-informed training module designed to protect high school students from gambling-related harm. Beyond the Game: Understanding the Risks of Gambling is the first module in a comprehensive prevention program created specifically for Grade 11 and 12 student-athletes and their coaches. 

The announcement comes as recent data from the Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey reveals concerning trends: approximately one-quarter (24%) of Ontario students in grades 7-12 report gambling while playing video games, including spending real money on loot boxes, keys, in-game currency, or skins betting.  

“Students face unique pressures in today’s digital landscape, with older adolescents, and particularly student athletes, at heightened risk,” said Sarah McCarthy, CEO of the Responsible Gambling Council. “By the time a problem reaches an educator’s office, prevention has already failed. That’s why we created this turnkey training resource that empowers schools to address gambling harms proactively.” 

The program, now available for full implementation following successful pilot program, has demonstrated remarkable results: 

• 92% of students learned where to go for help 
• 76% intended to use the strategies they learned 
• 100% of facilitators found the program relevant and effective 

The program requires minimal prep time for facilitators and can be delivered in approximately 30 minutes, making it accessible for implementation before team practices or over lunch hour. The comprehensive training addresses the unique risks to student-athletes, impacts of gambling, available supports, and healthy decision-making strategies. 

The training module includes an easy-to-implement facilitator guide with key information, suggestions, and instructions to help educators deliver smooth and engaging sessions. While designed for high-risk student-athlete populations, the principles apply to all students facing gambling pressures. 

It is currently launching in Ontario high schools, with the potential to expand to other markets in 2026. 

Availability and Additional Resources 

Educators, coaches, parents, and community members in Ontario can download the Beyond the Game training module at https://responsiblegambling.org/for-youth-and-young-adults/for-youth/youth-resources. This resource is currently available in English only. The French version is in development. 

About the Responsible Gambling Council 

The Responsible Gambling Council is a respected, independent non-profit organization and Ontario’s trusted expert in gambling harm prevention. For over 40 years, RGC has been a leader in preventing problem gambling in Canada and globally. Through evidence-informed programs, research, and partnerships with regulators, operators, treatment providers, community agencies, schools, and families, RGC works to ensure that gambling safeguards are in place and promote the wellbeing of all those it serves. Learn more at https://www.responsiblegambling.org. 

RGC