Some of DC’s top sports franchise lawyers spoke this afternoon to a ballroom full of faculty, alumni and future attorneys about how newcomers can find their way in sports law.
The panel was with the American Univ. Washington College of Law: “The GC Forum: A Conversation with DC’s Top Sports Team Lawyers.” » Four panelists discussed how skills such as relationship building, problem solving and engagement are essential to becoming a great general counsel in an organization.
The panel was moderated by the founder and co-CEO of Jasper Advisors and former SVP/External Engagement and Communications of Commanders. Julie Jensen and featured Commanders General Counsel and Senior Vice President/Business Affairs Mali Friedmanvice president and general counsel of Washington Spirit Shameeka QualloExecutive Vice President and General Counsel of Monumental Sports and Entertainment Abby Blomstrom and Senior Vice President and General Counsel of the Nationals Betsy Philpott.
They elaborated not only on the impact they have on their organization, which is vast and significant, but also highlighted how those interested in becoming general counsel can succeed in this role by using their soft skills, getting involved in all aspects of their organization’s operations and being flexible in career paths.
The panel, comprised of an all-female group, also discussed how being a woman in the C-Suite has helped them shape their organizations. Quallo said she takes the opportunity to reflect on the person she brings with her on her journey, as it is this mentality that has helped her move forward in her current role.
When asked what areas students should focus their law learning on, the group agreed that while students should be generalists, there are certain areas that will be important on a daily basis.
Blomstrom said a strong understanding of transactional law is a necessary asset, as the GC will work on all transactional deals entered into by the organization. Beyond that, Quallo said having an understanding of labor, intellectual property, litigation and data privacy are also great skills to learn as the industry continues to evolve.
Betsy Philpott of the Nationals, Mali Friedman of Commanders, Julie Jensen of Jasper Advisors, Abby Blomstrom of MSE and Shameeka Quallo of Washington SpiritAU Washington College of Law
