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Allen Godinez gives us a peek into the life of a gambler. As Hard Rock is the only LEGAL sports betting site in the state of Florida, having a part of a building dedicated to betting, with so many game machines, it’s a gambler’s dream.
According to the American Gaming Association, more than half of all American adults (57%) participated in some form of gambling in the past year. More than a quarter of adults (30%) gambled at a physical casino in the past year, while 21% placed a sports bet. Another study shows that roughly 30% of sports bettors say they have debts they attribute to gambling. Over half of the respondents owe $500 or more.
Sports betting can be fun, but it’s taken a life of its own. Before this calendar year flips, there have been numerous arrests of professional athletes due to their affiliation with illegal betting. The most notable case is Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier. It’s an example of how dangerous betting can get, especially when associated with the wrong crowd.
Allen Godinez walking towards the elevators to get down to the casino.Allen Godinez at Hard Rock Casino, by the Cash Center machine.TV Screens with spread, total, and winner odds at Hard Rock Casino.Allen Godinez opened his wallet, clearly empty, at the Bill Breaking machine.Various gambling games at Hard Rock Casino.Allen Godinez is inserting a $100 bill into a casino machine.Allen Godinez is taking part in a game at the casino, hoping to win big.Slot jackpots at Hard Rock Casino.Allen Godinez in clear distress after partaking in another casino game machine. Allen Godinez leaving the casino.Exiting the casino after a day of gambling.
Jervace Mayes is a junior broadcast journalism major with a sportscasting track. Mayes has pursued broadcast journalism as a member of his school’s news crew as well as completing courses at FIU’s CARTA Lee Caplin School of Journalism. Mayes plans to continue journalism in the sports industry after graduating with his Bachelor’s Degree in 2026.
Ronnie Godinez is a Miami native majoring in Digital Communications and Media. He is passionate about storytelling and hopes to build a career in the sports world, working for a major news network in the future.
Terrell Snowden is from Ocala, Florida, and attends Florida International University. A former football player for FIU, he is currently pursuing a career in graphic design and has a strong interest in digital media and visual storytelling. He has worked on initiatives at FIU that combine data visualization, design, and communication. His experience as a student-athlete has influenced his leadership, discipline, and teamwork, all of which he now uses in his creative pursuits.
