Dan, that initial deposit is to "confirm" the account if you are using Netteller , credit cards or any of the wallet type accounts for withdrawals.
There is typically another option of a wire transfer or
echeck, the wire transfer having an associated "fee" for the service and the Echeck requiring a faxed copy of your identification, a utility bill (to verify address) and sometimes a
credit card... different casinos "require" different docs.
If it seems like they are trying to make it difficult, recognize from their point of view... you are not a customer till you buy something. Read that casinos terms and conditions for withdrawing deposited funds. Can you deposit your 25, withdraw your winnings, then follow through with a withdrawl of the deposit? Do they have a minimum play for deposits? Do they have a "wait' period between withdrawls...
The only way you can answer those questions for your specific casino ie to read Their rules under "Terms and Conditions".
Good luck and dont give up...
Information is Power... just make sure you have the right info.