The Starnes Davis Florie Collegiate Sports Practice Group provides a full complement of services in the competitive world of college sports. With substantial experience ranging from NCAA compliance and investigations to intellectual property protection and litigation, we strive to help our clients navigate these complex environments and avoid potential problems through proactive assessment and advice. And when disputes arise, we provide the judgment and experience necessary to represent our clients zealously to achieve a quick and fair resolution of the matter.
NCAA Compliance & Investigations:
Intercollegiate athletics today is a minefield of complex rules, laws, and administrative processes. Navigating these waters requires detailed knowledge and practical advice to ensure compliance in an arena that often has intense public scrutiny. Doing so in the world of higher education also requires implementing resources in a cost-effective manner and in accordance with the educational mission of the institution.
The Starnes Davis Florie Collegiate Sports Practice Group provides proactive advice to its clients in a continuing effort to keep them abreast of and in compliance with the ever changing rules and regulations. We provide an independent, long-term view focused on preserving the integrity of the institution and absolute compliance with NCAA rules.
When there are allegations of potential rules violations, we work with due speed and absolute confidentiality to investigate and prepare a comprehensive report of the facts and recommended response. As outside counsel, the firm provides both the institution and the NCAA with an investigation that is unquestionably independent and absolutely thorough. We have handled numerous high-profile investigations for multiple institutions and have experience dealing with such issues as: agents and amateurism; player eligibility, recruiting; boosters and improper benefits; staffing; and student-athlete reinstatement.
Collegiate Sports Licensing:
The firm has extensive experience in protecting collegiate sports licensing programs. The firm has provided institutions with a wide range of advice on the best methods for protecting their intellectual property and preserve these valuable revenue streams. The firm has helped stop many infringements without the need for litigation. The firm also has substantial trial and appellate experience in infringement matters where an amicable resolution cannot be reached. This experience includes litigation involving the protection of trademarks, copyrights and the right of publicity.
