Penn National Gaming is set to launch sports wagering at its Ameristar Casino East Chicago on September 1, as Indiana makes headway to become the USA’s 12 legalised state.
The impending launch is subject to any required regulatory approval, with the Indiana Gaming Commission overseeing the activity across the Hoosier State, with wagering on college and pro sports permitted but betting on esports and high school sports banned.
Timothy Wilmott, chief executive officer for the company, said of the debut: “Penn National looks forward to opening a sportsbook and providing our customers with another great amenity at Ameristar Casino East Chicago.
“Indiana will soon become the 12th state to legalise sports betting following the repeal of the federal ban last year, and our patrons in Northwest Indiana can expect an incredible sports wagering experience at our facility.”
Penn National states that it’s striving to develop a “state-of-the-art sports betting experience” at the property, including kiosks and ticket writer stations that will support thousands of wagering options for its customers.
The new sportsbook is to be located adjacent to the properties main entrance and sports bar and grill, with a new betting counter and large odds board set to be a prominent feature in addition to numerous televisions broadcasting action from around the world.
“Our customers are very excited to start wagering on sports,” stated Matt Schuffert, general manager at Ameristar Casino East Chicago. “The passion for Indiana and Illinois sports teams runs deep in this region, and we look forward to becoming a destination for fans all year-round.”
Celebrating the first wagers at Ameristar East Chicago will be a pair of Chicago Bears legends in Mike Ditka and Devin Hester.
In addition to being a Pro Bowler with the Bears, Ditka coached Chicago to its only Super Bowl championship during the 1985-86 season, while Hester was a three-time first team all-pro who also holds the NFL record for most kicks returned for touchdowns in a career.
