Honestly speaking that's a good valid point you made however nothing against the participants. Some users above me already spoken out and explained some reasons. However, I can share you my personal experience.
I am a regular poster in gambling section but I have to say that I have some strong connections with some of other users in the gambling section too where we genuinely hang out with each other. We regularly host events to keep the community engaged.
To earn merit one really needs:
1. Fairly recognition (you will need to have a fair known face).
2. Constant engagement with the sports you love
3. and lastly of course your contents.
I am a regular poster in gambling section but I have to say that I have some strong connections with some of other users in the gambling section too where we genuinely hang out with each other. We regularly host events to keep the community engaged.
To earn merit one really needs:
1. Fairly recognition (you will need to have a fair known face).
2. Constant engagement with the sports you love
3. and lastly of course your contents.
You've probably said it all, Gambling is board probably the most dynamic board in the forum, most users post there not because they are interested in it, but just for certain requirements, and just as you've pointed out, It requires familiarity and showing genuine interest in the conversation. Most people won't even participate in a free competition, and that shows how much interests they have in gambling generally.
-___-
I doubt it's coincidental, but it could be purely accidental, again
