“We Americans love sports. We love to compete and believe in its benefits. And while we will come together in non-competitive ways to share friendship, conversation and knowledge, we love competition even more. We have even chosen it as our economic structure – capitalism.” |
Dr. Myles Brand NCAA PRESIDENT (2003) |
Athletics is big business in the U.S., and it takes seasoned legal professionals to provide reliable and practical advice on the important issues affecting participants in the sports industry.
The attorneys in the interdisciplinary Sports Law & Sports Facilities Group have a vast array of experience in many aspects of sports management and facility development and operations, including player and employment relations; financing; intellectual property; corporate law; construction law; land use and zoning; real estate; antitrust; tax; and litigation.
Since the proxy contest of the early 1980’s, the firm has represented the Rochester Red Wings (International League Triple A Baseball). Phil Fileri, a partner in the General Business Group, leads the group of attorneys serving the Red Wings, addressing such issues as the lease of Frontier Field, its new stadium, from the county, food and beverage services and franchise arrangements, and the more recent changes in the Red Wings’ affiliation with the Minnesota Twins from the Baltimore Orioles.
Leading the Group in the area of corporate transactions and operations is firm partner Bill Kreienberg who currently serves as counsel to a number of sports franchises, including the Buffalo Sabres (NHL Hockey), the Rochester Americans (AHL Hockey), the Rochester Rhinos (United Soccer League), the Rochester Knighthawks (National Lacrosse League), and the Rochester Rattlers (Major Lacrosse League).
Rob Weissflach, a partner in the Labor & Employment Group , has represented management in employment disputes on behalf of every sports franchise presently operating in Buffalo, NY.
Our Litigation Group has resolved numerous conflicts arising from the construction of major sports arenas and facilities. In addition, a number of our attorneys have been involved in the permitting, design, and construction of private golf clubs and courses throughout the region.
Our General Business Group and Real Estate Group have jointly worked on several golf course development projects.
OUR CLIENTS
Current and prospective league franchise owners/operators
Arena/stadium developers and operators
Universities
Golf course developers
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
William L. Kreienberg
Philip R. Fileri