The American Gaming Association released the following statement after the National Football League announced that Caesars Entertainment will be the first ever official casino sponsor of the NFL.

“The NFL’s official partnership with Caesars Entertainment is a perfect example of the value of contractual relationships between leagues and the casino gaming industry,” said Sara Slane, senior vice president of public affairs for the American Gaming Association.

“The partnerships now in place between gaming companies and each of the four major American sports leagues enrich the fan experience and validate gaming’s role as a form of mainstream entertainment.”