The buzzer sounds as they reach for their wallet knowing they won the bet. The exchange of money takes place quickly and discretely. They then begin to discuss the outcome of the next game.
“I don’t really feel bad when I bet on Har-Ber. I don’t bet against us. I bet on the point spread. I’ve only done it a couple of times,” said an anonymous student who bets on some of the basketball games. “It’s every couple of games.”
The gambling began at the Springdale vs. Har-Ber basketball game of the 2010-2011 season. Students place bets based on the predicted outcome of the games with other students.
“It started out as betting on college games and moved down to Har-Ber’s,” said another anonymous student. “I do it because I know Har-Ber will lose.”
Communication between those involved has been through text message.
“It’s worth the risk because they’re not going to find out,” said a student. “We just send out group text messages.”
District policy prohibits gambling. The policy, which is published online, states that a “student shall not participate in any activity which may be termed gambling or wagering where the stakes are money or any other object or objects of value.
The penalties for violation of this policy include probation, as a minimum, and expulsion from school for one (1) semester, as a maximum.”
According to Principal Danny Brackett, first offenders will be warned, and if they continually gamble knowing it’s against the rules, the student may receive detention up to expulsion for a semester.
“It’s all about respect,” said Dr. Brackett. “It’s a foolish use of resources.”
“The thrill is about getting money and to feel achieved,” the anonymous student said. “It makes the game more exciting. We have something to watch for.”
The gambling issues also conflict with the law. The “gambling house” offense is considered a Class D Felony that can be charged if gambling is being allowed. The age of the participants is also a contributor when looking at legality.
In the state of Arkansas it is illegal to gamble under the age of 18. The bets placed on the games could also affect the athletic programs.
“If AAA realize that betting was taking place, they could force the teams to forfeit the season and lose all winnings,” said School Resource Officer Tommy Wooten. “It would give us a black eye in the community.”
“If I were on the team and if we were good and were winning, I would feel confident,” an anonymous student said. “If we were bad and people were betting against me, I’d be pissed.”
“I think that it’s their money, but it doesn’t need to be happening during classroom instruction,” said English teacher Jessica Shelton.
The members of the basketball team may not have the full support they are looking for, but some look at it as a challenge.
“I think it’s gonna be funny whenever we win and they lose money,” said senior basketball player Jacob Berry. “It makes us want to win more.”