Going Pro: A Legal Guide for the College Athlete Prepared for

College Completion Some athletes choose to leave college early. Most professional athletic organizations recommend finishing a higher degree. A degree offers some backup stability. Only 1 percent of college athletes successfully join a professional team.

Agent Responsibilities Navigates new territory for a player Assists with career management Handles some public relations Deals with contract negotiations Acts in the best interest of the player at all times Acts honestly and ethically

Team Selection Few players spend their entire career with one team. The first team is often a jumping off point. The agent or manager helps match the athlete with the best team.

Contract negotiations A sports attorney helps with major sections of a professional contract. Compensation and length of contract are important. A sports attorney helps negotiate contracts with third party members (agents, manager). A contract should focus on the player’s progress in the sport.