Sports Lawyer Stacey Blackwell recently discussed her career, participation in SLA, and the upcoming Fall Symposium on November 7 in New Orleans for which she organized as its chair.
For more details on the symposium,, visit: https://www.sportslaw.org/events/2024fallsymposium.cfm
The interview follows.
Question: How did you get your start in sports/What was your big break?
Answer: I was an attorney in the real estate group of a large firm in L.A. when I decided to pursue my dream of working in sports. My big break came when two fellow alumni from UCLA took a chance on me and introduced me to a network of college athletics directors. Those Bruins changed my life! My first role in sports was Special Assistant to the Executive Director of Athletics at Long Beach State. I was at Long Beach State for an academic year, then joined the NCAA staff in Indianapolis as Manager of Promotions and Events. After progressing through a few marketing, communications and events roles, my first director-level job at the NCAA was Director of Strategic Initiatives. I marked 20 years at the NCAA this summer and retired from the national office as Director of Awards and Special Projects in September.
Q: What are your strengths?
A: Extensive sports industry experience — along with an early career as a litigator before my later focus on transactions. From positions within sports, I learned how crucial it is to understand goals, maintain relationships, communicate clearly and achieve innovative solutions. Business roles made me not just more knowledgeable but also more empathetic and attuned to collaborative opportunities.
Q: How long have you been involved with SLA?
A: Nearly two decades. When I started on the business side, I wanted to stay connected to law. The then-general counsel of the NCAA suggested that I join SLA! After years of mainly attending the annual conference, including serving on a panel, more recently I’ve gotten involved year-round in SLA committee service.
Q: What are the best aspects of the SLA?
A: Great people, outstanding channels to stay informed and sports law CLE!
Q: What has it been like preparing the fall symposium?
A: I’ve really enjoyed working with the planning committee, SLA board and Melissa Pomerene to develop the symposium. After serving on the committee the past two years when the event was virtual, it’s an honor to co-chair SLA’s first in-person fall symposium. The theme of Tech and Sports: Data, Deals and Decisions couldn’t be more timely. The committee has engaged an impressive lineup of speakers who truly represent the intersection of sports, law and technology.
Q: What are some of the sessions you are most looking forward to?
A: Sessions on broadcasting, officiating and sports betting feature rapidly developing areas that are constantly in the spotlight for the sports industry. Technology is dramatically changing stadium experiences, marketing and DEI approaches as well. With symposium speakers at the forefront of sports, law and tech, I’m looking forward to hearing insider perspectives and understanding industry trends that are important for sports lawyers.
Q: Are there other events besides the sessions attendees should know about?
A: The SLA outreach committee is partnering to provide a social/networking event for symposium attendees and other local SLA members on Wednesday evening, Nov. 6. This lead-in to the symposium is a great chance to catch up with SLA friends in New Orleans and meet other industry peers. A closing reception Thursday, Nov. 7, will be another fun opportunity to connect and cap off the symposium.
