Public relations isn't sexy

Public relations isn’t sexy.

Publicity, if filled with fun and fascination and leans positive, can be spicy.

Sports at all levels are caught between the two as they present legalized gambling to be hot games within the games. Public relations missives that preach responsible wagering generate snickers as they straddle the line between “bet responsibly” and “bet big, win big.”

Professional leagues, college sports and media organizations that not long ago preached gambling celibacy are now in bed with sports books, so it’s no surprise that each is dealing with issues, including athletes and coaches, caught in the crosshairs. For broadcasters where media messages are murkier, it’s even more challenging.

New, not new

You will read “integrity of the game” yet in your mind, know that big dollar deposits are the reason managers support and condemn gambling in the same breath. Only a few years ago legalized gambling gained mainstream traction when the Supreme Court granted all 50 of the United States to allow legalize betting. League leaders knew they were leaving money on the table if they didn’t body slam their way into the pool.

What about you?

Maybe you’re conflicted with publicizing one thing that contradicts what you’ve practiced in the past. If you’re willing to own why you changed your view and have crisis plans in place — a must — it might be a roll you’re willing to take.

The relationship between sports and gambling was never going to be a smooth one. The public relations part of it was going to be one of the most provocative in U.S. sports history because of past actions.

The best they can do, and you, if you find yourself in a values-challenged quandary, is to be confident in your decision. Set ground rules for who can do what and when at the outset and don’t deviate from discipline when things go sideways. Because they will.

© Gail Sideman, gpublicity 2024