'I don't want young athletes to go down the road I went down with gambling' - former rugby player who lost 5m wants to steer others away from addiction

Mark Bradshaw, a former rugby player who lost over €5 million to gambling, has founded Against Exploitative Gambling in Sport in Ireland. Funded by a member of the US Kennedy family, this initiative focuses on steering young athletes away from problem gambling. Bradshaw's personal experience with addiction led to significant life losses, including his family, but since quitting gambling in 2019, he has made it his mission to support others facing similar challenges. The venture highlights the importance of awareness and prevention in the sports community.

"I lost everything—my marriage, my relationship with my sons, I even contemplated suicide. My journey through gambling addiction was a dark path, but now I aim to help others avoid similar fates."

"With backing from a member of the US Kennedy dynasty, I have founded Against Exploitative Gambling in Sport to protect young athletes from the issues I faced. Awareness and prevention are key."

Read at Independent