Written by In the latest Culture in Sports podcast Mike and Wes interview Sports Attorney, Penn State Law Professor, Athletic Integrity Officer, and President of Culture in Sports Bob Boland. Bob discusses his views of the establishment of his broader sporting relationships and the guidance of athletes.
The cultural connection established and the meaningful fulfillment provided by sporting involvement was instilled in him in his youth and his experiences sharing skills and imparting knowledge in a collaborative relationship formed the basis of his love of instruction and coaching.
Bob has more than 20 years of legal experience having been an administrative law judge in New York City, a confidential assistant to a State Supreme Court Justice and an assistant district attorney. A former athlete himself, he went on to actively present as an agent in the negotiation of more than 100 sports contracts and endorsement agreements. He has also advised clients including pro franchise purchase groups, pro teams, universities and conferences.
Bob’s experiences in sports business evolved into his being offered the position of Athletic Integrity Officer at Penn State University in 2017. This is a role that has grown from the recovery from issues and as a part of settlement and is as much involved in the guidance and protection of the athletes as it is the preservation of the integrity of the sport.
In ensuring that standards in sport are met through the management of behaviours and the treatment of athletes, it is possible to establish a culture that is fair and just. By taking the responsibility to appoint dedicated personnel to oversee policies, procedures and practices, organizations are also mitigating future damages.
Bob explains his views on the education of athletes that enables them to negotiate their position and maker better, more informed decisions that will benefit them. An understanding of contracts and offers will protect the individual and guarantee their security in the future. This inclusion of support and guidance in the education of athletes will contribute to ongoing healthy culture within sports into the future.