Latest news with #NGB
Mail & Guardian
25-04-2025
- Business
- Mail & Guardian
What you need to start a sports betting platform in SA?
The sports betting market in South Africa has seen tremendous growth over the last few years, driven by the surge in demand for online entertainment and a fervent interest in local sports. From football, rugby, horse racing, and cricket, sports betting has become one of South Africans' go-to activities. This growth presents a huge opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the field. Scroll before you dive in, though — it's important to understand the local market, consumer behavior, and regulatory environment. Opening a betting platform here isn't just having a shiny website — it's knowing the legal, technological, and operational puzzle pieces that need to fit. Choosing the Right Software Partner One of the most important decisions you'll make when launching a sports betting platform is choosing the right software provider. This is where companies like What sets Altenar apart is its commitment to reliability and flexibility. Whether you're looking for a fully managed sportsbook solution or need a customizable software product, Altenar provides everything from plug-and-play modules to end-to-end platforms. Their experience and technological excellence help bookmakers launch secure, scalable, and competitive platforms that meet regulatory standards and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for users. In a highly regulated industry like South Africa, working with providers gives you the confidence to grow your business responsibly and efficiently. Licensing and Legal Requirements The National Gambling Board (NGB) and individual provincial boards, such as Gauteng or Western Cape, regulate sports betting in South Africa. Now, as such, if you wish to operate a sports betting platform legally, you are going to have to apply for a bookmaker's license in a province of your choice. This includes background checks, proof of funds, software audits, and strict compliance procedures. Bear in mind that operating without a license is a criminal act. It can take some time for applications to be approved, but it means that only serious and responsible operators are allowed to enter the market. You will also need legal advisers who are well acquainted with South African gambling law, as well as potentially local partners who will help with the application and approval stages. Being fully licensed also creates trust with your players — an important part of long-term success. Building a User-Friendly Platform The key to your success is to provide customers with an experience that is not just seamless but also very intuitive, no matter how advanced your backend is. These factors include a mobile-friendly website, quick loading times, live odds, in-play betting, safe payment methods, and dependable customer service. Mobile compatibility is crucial, as most South African users access betting platforms from their mobile devices. Consider localization as well—serving content in a variety of languages, accommodating local payment methods like EFT and vouchers, and tying in promotions with big sporting events. Working with seasoned providers can be extremely helpful here as well. The best part of them is that they want your business to thrive with their tools with an easy & modern interface for you. Marketing and Player Acquisition Getting players to sign up and play is the next big challenge once your platform goes live. Let's be candid: that means digital marketing channels like Google Ads, social media, influencer relationships, and SEO — just be mindful of making sure every single ad is legal through the gambling board's advertising guidelines. Welcome bonuses, promo codes, loyalty promotions, or similar should be part of a good marketing strategy. But don't take only gimmicks. Building trust and reputation and being transparent can entail much. Clearly disclose terms and conditions, provide responsible gambling information prominently, and always ensure that users have the ability to set limits regarding their own betting behavior. Responsible Gambling and Security Responsibility is important in industries such as sports betting. Responsible gambling is important in South Africa and should be with you. Your platform must offer features such as deposit limits, cool-off periods, self-exclusion options, and contact with professional helplines. Security is also a crucial consideration — users need to feel secure in sharing personal and financial details. Strong data encryption, two-factor authentication, and frequent audits must be enforced. Designing a secure platform shields the organization from cyber threats and increases player trust and brand reputation. Continuous Innovation and Growth After you launch your platform, that's not where the work ends. The fast-moving world of sports betting is coming at you with new trends, tech, and regulations all the time. By regularly upgrading your platform, exploring new betting markets, and responding to user comments, you can stay ahead. Realigning with flexible technology partners means you will not be left behind. This makes your platform competitive, forward-looking, and market-oriented. Summary Due to technology growth, starting a South African sports betting platform is a challenge and an opportunity. It requires meticulous planning, legal, due diligence, and an adequate technology stack. However, with the right team, including knowledgeable software partners and a dedication to player safety and innovation, it is possible to build a thriving, reputable betting business. So, if you want to open one of Africa's most exciting digital markets, do it the right way—legally, safely, and with a partner who knows the game inside out.
NBC Sports
17-04-2025
- Sport
- NBC Sports
USA Football named national governing body by USOPC ahead of flag football's Olympic debut in 2028
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee already has sprints, swim strokes and somersaults under its umbrella. Now, it's adding touchdowns. USA Football joins the likes of track and field, swimming and gymnastics as a national governing body after being certified by the USOPC. It's a significant moment for flag football ahead of its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. The organization becomes the 38th Summer Olympics national governing body (NGB). It will oversee all aspects of American football as it relates to selecting, training and supervising the U.S. men's and women's national teams. USA Football instantly arrives as a strong NGB, too, especially with the support of the NFL. 'A truly historic moment,' USA Football CEO Scott Hallenbeck said in an interview with The Associated Press. 'This is like the official stepping through the doorway into the home of the Olympic movement and now being part of the family. This an incredibly inspiring and an exciting moment for all of us at USA Football and for the sport at large.' In October 2023, the International Olympic Committee voted to add flag football, baseball/softball, cricket, lacrosse and squash to the 2028 Olympic program in Los Angeles. USA baseball, softball and squash have already been certified NGB members due to their participation in the Pan American Games. USA lacrosse and cricket are working toward certification. The road to becoming an NGB involves numerous steps, including an audit conducted by the USOPC compliance team. USA Football, the governing body for tackle and flag football, was examined to make sure it had the financial capabilities to support Team USA athletes, demonstrate it could create a robust training and competitive foundation and adhere to athlete safety standards. 'The process of becoming a NGB requires demonstrating great commitment to the athletes, to the sport, and to the Olympic and Paralympic community,' USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland said in a statement. 'We look forward to a successful partnership.' The popularity of flag football skyrocketed only after becoming a way to bring home an Olympic gold medal. Even NFL players — think Tyreek Hill and Patrick Mahomes — expressed an interest in possibly trying to make the Olympic roster, much like NBA or NHL players. Flag football has a powerful marketing arm in the NFL, which has helped organize programs and leagues. The NFL is pushing the game around the world, too, so it becomes even more competitive on a global scale. That only bodes well for flag football's long-term success and for Olympic inclusion beyond Los Angeles. USA Football's volunteer board of directors has NFL ties, too, with Mark Murphy, the president and CEO of the Green Bay Packers, and Pete Ward, the chief operating officer of the Indianapolis Colts, serving on it. 'They are the gold standard, frankly, of professional sports,' Hallenbeck said of the NFL. 'It's very important to the sport that they put their weight behind it. It's a brilliant international growth strategy for the NFL.' The women's game, in particular, has seen significant growth. There are now 14 states that have sanctioned high school girls flag football as a varsity sport and several NAIA schools that are offering college scholarships. More than 230,000 girls ages six to 17 played flag football in 2023. 'I'm proud to show young girls around the world that they can achieve greatness in football,' Team USA quarterback Vanita Krouch said in a statement. 'I can't wait for the world to see our team compete in 2028.' Flag football will be played at the LA Olympics under the rules spelled out by the International Federation of American Football. It will be five-on-five with everyone eligible to catch a pass. The field is 50 by 25 yards (46 by 23 meters), along with 10 yards (9 meters) for each end zone. A touchdown is worth six points. Team USA has been a dominant force in men's and women's flag football on the international scene. They each won gold medals in the IFAF flag football world championships in Lahti, Finland, last year, with the men beating Austria and the women getting by Mexico. 'We're enjoying the journey,' Hallenbeck said. 'And we're really excited about each day getting closer to the ultimate culmination of all this hard work, which will of course be at the Olympic Games themselves.'
Associated Press
17-04-2025
- Sport
- Associated Press
USA Football named national governing body by USOPC ahead of flag football's Olympic debut in 2028
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee already has sprints, swim strokes and somersaults under its umbrella. Now, it's adding touchdowns. USA Football joins the likes of track and field, swimming and gymnastics as a national governing body after being certified Thursday by the USOPC. It's a significant moment for flag football ahead of its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. The organization becomes the 38th Summer Olympics national governing body (NGB). It will oversee all aspects of American football as it relates to selecting, training and supervising the U.S. men's and women's national teams. USA Football instantly arrives as a strong NGB, too, especially with the support of the NFL. 'A truly historic moment,' USA Football CEO Scott Hallenbeck said in an interview with The Associated Press. 'This is like the official stepping through the doorway into the home of the Olympic movement and now being part of the family. This an incredibly inspiring and an exciting moment for all of us at USA Football and for the sport at large.' In October 2023, the International Olympic Committee voted to add flag football, baseball/softball, cricket, lacrosse and squash to the 2028 Olympic program in Los Angeles. Baseball, softball and squash have already been certified NGB members due to their participation in the Pan American Games. Cricket is working toward certification. The road to becoming an NGB involves numerous steps, including an audit conducted by the USOPC compliance team. USA Football, the governing body for tackle and flag football, was examined to make sure it had the financial capabilities to support Team USA athletes, demonstrate it could create a robust training and competitive foundation and adhere to athlete safety standards. 'The process of becoming a NGB requires demonstrating great commitment to the athletes, to the sport, and to the Olympic and Paralympic community,' USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland said in a statement. 'We look forward to a successful partnership.' The popularity of flag football skyrocketed only after becoming a way to bring home an Olympic gold medal. Even NFL players — think Tyreek Hill and Patrick Mahomes — expressed an interest in possibly trying to make the Olympic roster, much like NBA or NHL players. Flag football has a powerful marketing arm in the NFL, which has helped organize programs and leagues. The NFL is pushing the game around the world, too, so it becomes even more competitive on a global scale. That only bodes well for flag football's long-term success and for Olympic inclusion beyond Los Angeles. USA Football's volunteer board of directors has NFL ties, too, with Mark Murphy, the president and CEO of the Green Bay Packers, and Pete Ward, the chief operating officer of the Indianapolis Colts, serving on it. 'They are the gold standard, frankly, of professional sports,' Hallenbeck said of the NFL. 'It's very important to the sport that they put their weight behind it. It's a brilliant international growth strategy for the NFL.' The women's game, in particular, has seen significant growth. There are now 14 states that have sanctioned high school girls flag football as a varsity sport and several NAIA schools that are offering college scholarships. More than 230,000 girls ages six to 17 played flag football in 2023. 'I'm proud to show young girls around the world that they can achieve greatness in football,' Team USA quarterback Vanita Krouch said in a statement. 'I can't wait for the world to see our team compete in 2028.' Flag football will be played at the LA Olympics under the rules spelled out by the International Federation of American Football. It will be five-on-five with everyone eligible to catch a pass. The field is 50 by 25 yards (46 by 23 meters), along with 10 yards (9 meters) for each end zone. A touchdown is worth six points. Team USA has been a dominant force in men's and women's flag football on the international scene. They each won gold medals in the IFAF flag football world championships in Lahti, Finland, last year, with the men beating Austria and the women getting by Mexico. 'We're enjoying the journey,' Hallenbeck said. 'And we're really excited about each day getting closer to the ultimate culmination of all this hard work, which will of course be at the Olympic Games themselves.' ___ AP sports:
Yahoo
17-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
USA Football named national governing body by USOPC ahead of flag football's Olympic debut in 2028
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee already has sprints, swim strokes and somersaults under its umbrella. Now, it's adding touchdowns. USA Football joins the likes of track and field, swimming and gymnastics as a national governing body after being certified Thursday by the USOPC. It's a significant moment for flag football ahead of its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Advertisement The organization becomes the 38th Summer Olympics national governing body (NGB). It will oversee all aspects of American football as it relates to selecting, training and supervising the U.S. men's and women's national teams. USA Football instantly arrives as a strong NGB, too, especially with the support of the NFL. 'A truly historic moment,' USA Football CEO Scott Hallenbeck said in an interview with The Associated Press. 'This is like the official stepping through the doorway into the home of the Olympic movement and now being part of the family. This an incredibly inspiring and an exciting moment for all of us at USA Football and for the sport at large.' In October 2023, the International Olympic Committee voted to add flag football, baseball/softball, cricket, lacrosse and squash to the 2028 Olympic program in Los Angeles. Baseball, softball and squash have already been certified NGB members due to their participation in the Pan American Games. Cricket is working toward certification. Advertisement The road to becoming an NGB involves numerous steps, including an audit conducted by the USOPC compliance team. USA Football, the governing body for tackle and flag football, was examined to make sure it had the financial capabilities to support Team USA athletes, demonstrate it could create a robust training and competitive foundation and adhere to athlete safety standards. 'The process of becoming a NGB requires demonstrating great commitment to the athletes, to the sport, and to the Olympic and Paralympic community,' USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland said in a statement. 'We look forward to a successful partnership.' The popularity of flag football skyrocketed only after becoming a way to bring home an Olympic gold medal. Even NFL players — think Tyreek Hill and Patrick Mahomes — expressed an interest in possibly trying to make the Olympic roster, much like NBA or NHL players. Flag football has a powerful marketing arm in the NFL, which has helped organize programs and leagues. The NFL is pushing the game around the world, too, so it becomes even more competitive on a global scale. That only bodes well for flag football's long-term success and for Olympic inclusion beyond Los Angeles. Advertisement USA Football's volunteer board of directors has NFL ties, too, with Mark Murphy, the president and CEO of the Green Bay Packers, and Pete Ward, the chief operating officer of the Indianapolis Colts, serving on it. 'They are the gold standard, frankly, of professional sports,' Hallenbeck said of the NFL. 'It's very important to the sport that they put their weight behind it. It's a brilliant international growth strategy for the NFL.' The women's game, in particular, has seen significant growth. There are now 14 states that have sanctioned high school girls flag football as a varsity sport and several NAIA schools that are offering college scholarships. More than 230,000 girls ages six to 17 played flag football in 2023. 'I'm proud to show young girls around the world that they can achieve greatness in football,' Team USA quarterback Vanita Krouch said in a statement. 'I can't wait for the world to see our team compete in 2028.' Advertisement Flag football will be played at the LA Olympics under the rules spelled out by the International Federation of American Football. It will be five-on-five with everyone eligible to catch a pass. The field is 50 by 25 yards (46 by 23 meters), along with 10 yards (9 meters) for each end zone. A touchdown is worth six points. Team USA has been a dominant force in men's and women's flag football on the international scene. They each won gold medals in the IFAF flag football world championships in Lahti, Finland, last year, with the men beating Austria and the women getting by Mexico. 'We're enjoying the journey," Hallenbeck said. 'And we're really excited about each day getting closer to the ultimate culmination of all this hard work, which will of course be at the Olympic Games themselves.' ___ AP sports:
