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The Problem with DJ Carey's Gambling

This page is written by
Siobhan Aslett
Siobhan AslettIrish Sportsbook Specialist
Fact Checked By
Rebecca Mackay
Rebecca MackayHead of Content
According to our Editorial Guide

Hurling Legend DJ Carey and His Struggles with Gambling Addiction

DJ Carey is widely regarded as one of the greatest hurlers of all time. He won five All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship medals with Kilkenny during his career, as well as four All-Star Awards and the Hurler of the Year award in 1995. Carey was a member of the Kilkenny team that won the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship in 1992, 1993, 2000, 2002, and 2003. He retired from inter-county hurling in 2005, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented hurlers to ever play the game. In 2008, he was inducted into the GAA Hall of Fame. Pictured: Legendary Hurler DJ Carey tries his hand a using a cricket bat bowled to by the Australian Cricket team during a media event at Croke Park, Dublin.

djcarey

Despite his incredible success on the field, Carey's personal life was plagued by his gambling addiction. He is known for his love of gambling and is often seen at the races and in bookmakers. However, his addiction had severe consequences for him and his loved ones. In 2009, Carey was banned from entering any licensed premises in Ireland due to his gambling habit. His addiction led to significant financial problems; he had to borrow money from friends and even sold his house to pay off his debts.

Carey's story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of problem gambling and the importance of seeking help when needed. It's a reminder that even the most talented and successful people can struggle with addiction and that no one is immune to its effects. However, Carey's legacy as one of the greatest hurlers of all time is secure, and his story serves as a reminder that success on the field is only one aspect of a person's life. It's important to take care of one's mental and emotional health as well and to seek help when needed.

DJ Carey, Gambling Addiction, and THAT Debt

DJ Carey also made the headlines recently due to the remarkable deal he secured with Allied Irish Banks (AIB) to write off almost all of a massive €9.5m debt. The debt was due to a €7.85m loan secured on properties at two of Ireland's most exclusive golf resorts. Carey brokered a settlement with the bank in April 2017, six years after it secured a High Court judgement against him.

Despite the specifics of the deal not being made public, many have questioned whether Carey was shown favouritism by AIB due to his status as a sports legend. However, the former hurler has been open about his financial struggles in the past, stating in a 2015 interview that he was dealing with significant debt issues and had sold his house to pay off some of his debts. Irish Mortgage Holders Association (IMHA) chief David Hall also commented on the deal, saying it was "not a normal deal" and looked "unusual". He added that he had dealt with people of "greater influence" who were not granted such favourable terms.

The write-off was referred to as a "compromise" in a written settlement agreement obtained by RTÉ. Under the settlement, if Carey received assets or cash worth more than €50,000, then any money he received as gifts, awards or inheritance, or won in gambling or lotteries, had to be given to the bank. But this "windfall" clause lapsed last April. While the specifics of the deal may never be made public, the case has raised questions about whether AIB made similar deals with other clients and the fairness of such arrangements.

DJ Carey and the Road to Recovery

After years of struggling with his gambling addiction, Carey finally sought help and began his road to recovery. He went to counselling and attended Gamblers Anonymous meetings, which helped him to overcome his addiction. Carey also received support from his family and friends, who helped him to stay on track and avoid relapse.

Carey's recovery wasn't easy, but he was determined to overcome his addiction and rebuild his life. He began to focus on his career in coaching and became involved with the Kilkenny senior team once again, this time as a coach. He also became involved with St. Kieran's College, his alma mater, and helped to coach the school's hurling team. Pictured: Taoiseach Bertie Ahern TD sits with DJ Carey outside Government Buildings in Dublin, at the photocall to launch Happy Heart Week-end.

djcarey

The Dangers of Gambling Addiction

Gambling problems are behavioural addictions that can have significant negative consequences for those who become addicted. Some of the dangers of gambling addiction include:

  • Financial Loss: Gambling can lead to significant financial losses, with gamblers losing large sums of money, going into debt, and even bankrupting themselves or their families.
  • Strained Relationships: Gambling addiction can put a strain on relationships, leading to distrust and broken bonds with family and friends.
  • Negative Impact on Mental Health: The stress and anxiety that come with problem gambling can have negative effects on mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

The Dangers of Gambling Addiction

Gambling problems are behavioural addictions that can have significant negative consequences for those who become addicted. Some of the dangers of gambling addiction include:

  • Financial Loss: Gambling can lead to significant financial losses, with gamblers losing large sums of money, going into debt, and even bankrupting themselves or their families.
  • Strained Relationships: Gambling addiction can put a strain on relationships, leading to distrust and broken bonds with family and friends.
  • Negative Impact on Mental Health: The stress and anxiety that come with problem gambling can have negative effects on mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

Support for Those Struggling with Gambling Addiction

There are many resources available for those struggling with gambling addiction. Here are some of the resources available to Irish players who need support with, or have a question about, problem gambling:

  • Gamblers Anonymous: A support group for those struggling with a gambling addiction.

  • National Council on Problem Gambling: Provides information and resources for problem gambling prevention and treatment.

  • Gambling Therapy: Provides free online support and counselling for those struggling with a gambling addiction.

  • National Helpline: A confidential helpline for those struggling with a gambling addiction.

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Responsible Gambling Practices

Responsible gambling is crucial for avoiding the negative consequences of problem gambling. Here are some ways to practise responsible gambling:

  1. Set Limits: Set limits on the time and money spent on gambling. Only gamble what you can afford to lose.

  2. Avoid Chasing Losses: Chasing losses can lead to more significant financial losses and increase the risk of addiction.

  3. Seek Help: Seek help when needed, including counselling and support groups. If you feel like you're struggling with gambling problems, don't hesitate to seek help.

Supporting Those Struggling with Gambling Addiction

If you know someone who is struggling with a gambling addiction, there are steps you can take to help them. Here are some ways to support someone with gambling problems:

  • Approach Them with Empathy: Approach the person with empathy and understanding, letting them know that you're there to support them.

  • Encourage Them to Seek Help: Encourage the person to seek help, whether through counselling, support groups, or other resources.

  • Offer Practical Assistance: Offer practical assistance, such as helping them manage their finances, accompanying them to counselling appointments, or finding alternative activities to do together.

The Importance of Awareness and Prevention

DJ Carey's story is a powerful reminder of the dangers of problem gambling and the importance of awareness and prevention. It's important to understand the risks associated with gambling and to seek help when needed. It's also important to practise responsible gambling and to avoid chasing losses or betting more than you can afford to lose.

Prevention is also crucial in addressing the issue of problem gambling. Education and awareness campaigns can help to inform people about the risks associated with gambling and the resources available for those who are struggling with behavioural addictions. It's important to provide support and resources for those who are at risk of developing a gambling problem, including young people who may be more vulnerable to developing addictive behaviours.

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Conclusion

DJ Carey is a legendary hurling player who struggled with a serious gambling problem. His story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of problem gambling and the importance of seeking help when needed. Carey's recovery is also a testament to the power of support and the importance of awareness and prevention in addressing the issue of problem gambling.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, there are resources available to help. Don't hesitate to seek support, and remember that recovery is possible.

Sportsbook Expert

Sports & sportsbook expert of 8 years. Specialising in a subject close to her heart, sports, Siobhan informs online sports betting fans about the latest news & best sports betting sites.

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