A family and friends gathered for a charity football match in memory of Jack Ritchie, a 24-year-old from Sheffield who died by suicide after struggling with a gambling addiction while working as an English teacher in Hanoi in November 2017, according to event organizers.
The William Ramsay Cup and Gambling with Lives
The William Ramsay Cup charity football tournament, named after Jack’s middle names, took place at the U-Mix Centre in Sheffield. According to friend Doug Daly, who set up the tournament in 2017, the event has been held every year since Jack’s death to raise funds for the charity Gambling with Lives.
Did you know?
Daly shared that he and Jack used to visit betting shops together when they were younger. However, according to Daly, he did not realize the severity of Jack’s gambling problem until after his death.
The Visibility of Sports Betting Advertisements
Reflecting on the ubiquity of the betting industry, Daly noted that he and his friends grew up playing football together and regularly watch matches. According to Daly, it was only after Jack died that he and a friend sat watching a game and noticed hundreds of gambling adverts displayed around the stadium.
“And they had been there all along and we just hadn’t noticed but now, with the work Gambling with Lives and others are doing, it’s bringing it to attention,” Daly said.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the William Ramsay Cup?
The William Ramsay Cup is an annual charity football tournament held in Sheffield in memory of Jack Ritchie, set up by his friend Doug Daly to raise money for Gambling with Lives.
Who was Jack Ritchie?
Jack Ritchie was a 24-year-old from Sheffield who died by suicide in November 2017 after suffering from a gambling addiction while working as an English teacher in Hanoi.
What organization benefits from the charity match?
If you or someone you know has been affected by gambling addiction or mental health struggles, support is available. You can contact organizations such as Gambling with Lives or local mental health helplines for assistance.
Related reading