Gambling isn’t inherently evil. If approached correctly, it can benefit you in different ways. For starters, you can use it to socialize and hone your mental capabilities. But achieving all these benefits is no easy feat. You must do much more on your end, including gambling periodically, wisely, though, and only registering with sites affiliated with the most recognized brands. You must also never forget that gambling is risky, and it can lead to addiction problems. If you are not careful, you may end up with a similar fate as some of the following Irish footballers did.

1.  Conn Kilpatrick

Conn Patrick has enjoyed a stellar football career and achieved what most footballers only dream of. He bagged an All-Ireland in his debut season. But the Tyrone GAA football star also has a dark past marred with gambling problems.

In a past interview, Kilpatrick admitted that he started gambling in his teens. But back then, his escapades were innocent and harmless. Over the years, he developed a disastrous habit that left him in deep debt. From his confession, he’s had to steal and borrow immense amounts just to satisfy a craving borne of a crippling addiction.

2.  Aaron Traynor

Portadown FC’s defender Aaron Taylor is yet another footballer who’s gone a few rounds with gambling issues. But his outstanding performance as a pro athlete playing for other teams like Cliftonville, Coleraine, and Carrick Rangers still lives on. He also has several honors, including an Irish and League Cup.

Over a decade or so, Aaron Taylor has gambled fervently and lost a copious six-figure fortune. Fortunately, he beat his addiction recently and has been going strong for over three years now.

3.  Keith Gillespie

Keith Gillespie is one of a handful of Irish footballers who’s managed to play for iconic international clubs. As a talented player, Gillespie began his career at Manchester United as a right-winger. He then played for many other teams, including Newcastle United, Blackburn Rovers, and Leicester City.

Gillespie started gambling when he was around 17 years old. The rush of adrenaline that every player experiences after winning soon got him, and he found himself betting on everything from football to dogs and horses. On one particular day in 1995, which Gillespie calls “Black Friday,” he lost £47,000, which was an enormous amount back then.

4.  Michael Ruddy

Michael Ruddy is a footballer from Northern Ireland who plays as a defender for Ards FC. Like other sports stars who’ve battled gambling addiction, Ruddy started betting at the young age of 17. And the adrenaline rush associated with the activity kept him returning for more.

Ruddy was mainly addicted to online and offline roulette. He used to wager until everything he had was gone, one or a million pounds. But after seeking professional help, he’s been clean for a few years.

Recap

Gambling should be a fun activity, whether you’re doing it on an online site or a physical casino. But, without the necessary precautions, it can take a dark turn and become a problem.

The one thing you should learn from the sad tales of footballers like Conn Kilpatrick is to be careful and prioritize responsible gambling. If you develop gambling issues, seek professional help as soon as possible.