(Picture credit University of Nebraska)
Save Nebraska Sports, the Nebraska ballot question committee opposing initiatives 440 and 441, released a letter Wednesday afternoon from Nebraska Hall of Fame Coach Tom Osborne and 44 other current and former Huskers urging voters to oppose legalizing online sports betting within the state.
“As Huskers, we understand the pressure that comes with high-level competition. Today’s student-athletes should be able to compete without worrying every play, mistake, or outcome could affect someone’s financial well-being,” the letter stated.
The current ballot initiatives follow an expansion of gambling in Nebraska in recent years, including casino gambling. The initiatives, billed like their predecessors as property tax relief, also come during a time when property taxes are among the most discussed issues in state and local elections.
While longtime anti-gambling advocates in the state have pointed to lackluster projections in the way of actual relief, the Huskers’ letter focused mostly on what tangible effects sports gambling would have on current athletes.
“No student-athlete should face harassment or threats because gamblers lost money,” the letter said. “Game manipulation, bribery, extortion, and threats against athletes, officials, and staff are dangers to the sports world.”
Signers included players and coaches from ten different Husker sports: wrestling, gymnastics, track, golf, tennis, basketball, baseball, softball, football, and volleyball.
Notable current Huskers included head wrestling coach Mark Manning, starting first baseman and leading hitter Case Sanderson, and high jump champion and Olympic hopeful Tyus Wilson.
Former Huskers were headlined by 1983 Heisman Trophy finalist Turner Gill and former NFL running back Roy Helu Jr.
“Out of state gambling conglomerates are seeking to make a profit off of fans and players… these groups do not care about our athletes, our traditions, or Nebraska families. They see our state as another market and every phone as another casino.”
They additionally worry that the expansion of gambling markets would break down trust between Huskers on the field and Huskers in the stands, citing FBI warnings about corruption within the industry.
“Criminal actors attempt to manipulate games by exploiting athletes facing financial difficulties substance abuse or gambling problems. When fans begin questioning whether the outcome of a game is determined by honest competition, the integrity of the entire sport is at risk.”
While Osborne has previously spoken out on the matter, his 44 accompanying signers now join ranks with State Treasurer Joey Spellerberg, State Auditor Mike Foley, and former Omaha Mayor Hal Daub in opposition to initiatives 440 and 441.
“Husker athletics is about teamwork, discipline, competition, and pride in our state… we urge our fellow Nebraskans to protect student-athletes, protect families, and preserve the integrity of college athletics by voting NO.”
— Lewis Thune is a College Fix writing fellow with The Plains Sentinel.