7 February 2016 remains a date etched in Arne Nilis‘ memory. On that day, the former Belgian footballer decided to turn his back on gambling. For years, gambling had taken over his life, dictating his daily routine and undermining his relationships. Quitting was not only a personal liberation: it became his life’s mission.
From individual struggle to collective mission
Nearly ten years later, Arne Nilis took a new step forward with the launch of Beyond the Bet, an organisation dedicated to prevention and support in the face of the dangers of gambling. The initiative is aimed not only at addicts, but also at their families, friends and social environment. It also targets businesses, schools and sports clubs, places where the subject is often taboo but necessary.
“What was once my greatest pitfall is now my greatest strength. Having been trapped in a gambling addiction myself for years, I know how low you can sink, but I also know that recovery is possible. This personal journey is the basis of Beyond the Bet: an organisation created by and for people who truly understand this problem.”
This project was born out of a simple belief: no one should have to face the ravages of addiction alone. Arne Nilis’ experience gives him credibility. In Belgium and the Netherlands, where sports betting and online gaming are booming, the need for such a structure is becoming increasingly urgent.
“This new adventure is exciting, but above all, it is right. Because every step we take with Beyond the Bet brings us closer to a society where gambling no longer destroys lives.”
Prevention as a central pillar
Prevention is at the heart of Beyond the Bet. The organisation offers conferences, workshops and training courses. The aim is to raise awareness among young people and adults about the risks of gambling, which are often underestimated. Arne Nilis does not hesitate to visit schools and sports clubs to break the silence and encourage dialogue.
Personalised support
Beyond raising awareness, Beyond the Bet focuses on individual support. Coaching and guidance sessions are offered to people in difficulty, but also to their loved ones. Because addiction does not only destroy the gambler: it affects their entire social circle.
“Gambling problems don’t just affect the gambler. They affect families, teams, organisations and entire communities.”
The approach is intended to be inclusive and supportive, far from any stigma.
A two-pronged mission
While the initiative has personal roots, it also aims to have a global impact. By collaborating with institutions, businesses and sports organisations, Beyond the Bet hopes to raise awareness in the long term. The organisation does not just bear witness: it offers concrete tools to help organisations integrate prevention policies.
From the sports field to the social arena
As a former professional footballer, Arne Nilis knows all about the pressure in the dressing room, the temptations and the pitfalls associated with easy money. Today, he puts this experience to good use for society. In a context where sponsorship by gambling operators is omnipresent in European sport, his testimony takes on a particular significance.
One of the biggest challenges will be to convince a public that is sometimes reluctant to acknowledge the problem. The trivialisation of gambling, accentuated by advertising and digitalisation, makes prevention more complex.
With Beyond the Bet, Arne Nilis is not just sharing his story. He is building a structure designed to last, capable of growing and adapting to contemporary issues. This initiative could become a model for the prevention of gambling addiction.
“I look forward to continuing on this path with many of you. Because alone, we go faster, but together, we go further.”