On Thursday, March 6, 2025, Saul Malek visited Catholic Central to talk about the dangers of sports betting and gambling addiction among young adults, sharing his personal story and insights. 

Saul Malek is a keynote speaker and recovering gambling addict dedicated to educating others about the risks of modern gambling. Raised in Houston, Texas, he attended St. John's School and later Trinity University. 

Initially passionate about fantasy sports, Saul's involvement escalated to sports betting during his sophomore year of college, leading to significant personal losses between September 2017 and July 2019. 

Having abstained from gambling for over five years, he now shares his experiences through speaking engagements at schools, podcasts, news outlets, and other organizations.

During his presentation, Saul talked about the pervasive nature of online gambling and its potential dangers, especially given the constant advertising during sporting events. 

In addition to his lived experience, Saul has a strong educational background, having attended institutions like St. John's, Trinity, and Southern Methodist University. 

His presentation addressed not only gambling but also related challenges such as self-esteem issues, financial pressures, coping with emotions, peer pressure, and loneliness. 

He concluded his presentation by encouraging students to reach out to family, friends, teachers, and counselors for support. He also provided the following resources:

1-800-GAMBLER

1-800-GAMBLER is a confidential, toll-free helpline available 24/7 for individuals struggling with problem gambling. It connects callers to professional counselors, support groups, and treatment programs tailored to their needs. 

Gamblers Anonymous (GA)

Gamblers Anonymous is a 12-step support group for individuals struggling with compulsive gambling. Modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, GA provides a structured program that encourages members to share their experiences, seek support from peers, and work through steps toward recovery. Meetings are available both in-person and online.

Algamus

Algamus is a residential gambling addiction treatment center located in Arizona that provides specialized, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with gambling disorders. 

In addition to today’s presentation, Saul will speak at the Michigan Gambling Disorder Symposium at the Showplace in Novi this weekend, March 8-9, 2025. He will also be hosting a Zoom webinar for parents tonight, March 6, 2025, at 6 pm. 

Details are as follows:

Thursday, March 6

Saul Malek | Dangers of Sports Betting, Gambling Addiction

6:00 p.m.

Link to webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82911053752?pwd=h0aPIpqppl7rFhqIEqRbfM7yulhHfe.1

 Registration is not required, but you'll need to enter the password Shamrocks to access the webinar.