Sportsbook First Impression

Players Only was launched in 1997 and has since accepted over 45 million wagers worldwide. In July 2001, Players Only was purchased by SportingBet , a UK-based publicly-traded company and became part of one of the largest Internet gaming conglomerates worldwide. The credibility instilled by this historical legacy is apparent on the website.

The website clearly has one of the better-designed layouts amongst online sportsbooks. The hues and tones used are soothing to the eye and important links and subject headings are obviously placed. The makers of Players Only try to take customer satisfaction one step further by placing scantily clad women on almost every page. I can overlook this absurdity considering the parent company.

The web content on Players Only is well thought out and unambiguous. Handicappers can visit the "Help" page to learn all the details about wage types and betting styles. The website is also committed to ensuring the security concerns of handicappers by offering in-depth explanations of Players Only 's security settings and by offering substantial information about Players Only 's history and credibility.

Players Only offers basic methods for transacting deposits and withdrawals. These include Credit Cards, Western Union, Bank Wires and Cashiers Checks. Though Players Only has not introduced newer and more accessible Internet-based options, they keep account management simple and economical. Almost no fees are charged during any transaction. Once they are registered, new members are required to deposit a minimum amount of $20 in order to place bets, which is also feasible in comparison with other websites.

Wagering

Players Only , like many other online sportsbooks, focuses on football, basketball, baseball, hockey, as well as international favorites such as Tennis, Golf, Boxing and Horse Racing. Motor Sports, specifically NASCAR and Formula 1, are also featured prominently. The "Sportsbook" link on Players Only 's home page automatically takes one to a user-friendly wagering section of the site that is easy to navigate when searching for current sports offerings and propositions.

Players Only also features a live casino room that can be accessed by members only. Popular table games and slots are offered here and the set-up makes it easy for serious betters to take advantage of both gaming genres through their existing account.

Online Sportbook Research

Players Only only received a D+ rating as far as deposit security is concerned, but I am sure this is a rating given prior to the SportingBet buyout of Players Only . Handicappers have nothing to fear with SportingBet owning and operating Players Only .

Promotions

Promotions are offered in bulk at Players Only . Free cash is credited to all new member accounts and several progressive opportunities exist for gaining bonus funds with new member referrals. A category called "Contests" lists interesting raffles and prize drawings that take place regularly and a history of past winners substantiates these offerings. The website encourages one to bet and bet more and it promises - almost guarantees - rewards for indulging in its sports betting.

Sportsbook Customer Service

Customer service at Players Only is as impressive as the remainder of Players Only 's operations. One has the option of emailing different service accounts according to the nature of the inquiry. A live chat option is offered for help and is answered instantly by a courteous and knowledgeable representative. A toll-free telephone number is provided, which is also answered immediately. The phone representative was polite and had all the answers, even if some of them are in cut-and-paste formats. The "Help" page that hosts these services also offers a method where one can track their "trouble tickets" while waiting for a response. This is truly a professional set-up.

Sportbook Nitty-Gritty

Players Only is named appropriately; it is indeed for players only. The Players Only website offers facility of use and informative content that will attract first-time betters. One can see that the gaming aficionado will truly feel at home at Players Only . With the backing of one of the most prominent Internet gambling conglomerates, Players Only must succeed.