College Football Player DeShawn Hanika Partners With IC360 To Promote Integrity
Partnership marks an important step in educating student-athletes about wagering pitfalls
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Global technology and consultancy firm Integrity Compliance 360 (IC360) announced this week a new partnership with college football tight end DeShawn Hanika. Together, they are launching an educational initiative aimed at promoting sports integrity and raising awareness about problem gambling.
Hanika, playing at the time for Iowa State, was one of over a dozen college student-athletes charged over improper sports bets in 2023. The case was eventually dismissed, but it cost him the 2023 season. Now, having transferred to Kansas ahead of the 2024 season, Hanika believes that the partnership with IC360 is a chance to turn his experience into a valuable lesson for others.
“Some student-athletes might believe that betting on separate sports poses no risk, but my wake-up call can be a crucial educational moment to help others understand what’s at stake and prevent similar pitfalls,” said Hanika. “I appreciate IC360 for giving me the platform to spread my message and contribute to positive change.”
“We are proud to partner with DeShawn,” added IC360 Chief Operating Officer Scott Sadin, “and provide him with a platform to share his experience and build on IC360’s vision to pioneer a new standard in integrity training and education integrity training within the sports industry.”
Education is the goal
In collaboration with the IC360 Education Team, Hanika has produced video content designed to educate athletes, coaches, and support staff about the dangers of problem gambling and the impact that sports wagering may have on the integrity of the game.
The content will be posted to IC360’s digital education platform as part of the company’s Gambling Awareness and Sports Integrity Program.
Mark Potter, IC360’s co-managing director of education and training, hopes that Hanika’s contribution to the program will have a strong impact on young student-athletes: “DeShawn’s willingness to share his experience and articulate the impact his wagering investigation has had and continues to have on his career, relationships, and wellbeing will provide a current and unique example to NCAA athletes across the collegiate landscape.”
This announcement comes as the NCAA, led by President Charlie Baker, continues to push for a nationwide ban on prop bets involving college athletes. Baker’s proposal aims to help safeguard athletes from harassment and ensure game integrity. States such as Ohio, Maryland, Vermont, and Louisiana have already enacted such bans. Meanwhile, the Wyoming Gaming Commission is still deliberating on the issue, choosing to observe what happens in other states before making a final decision.
