NEWS
AT THE TOP OF THEIR GAME AUWCL Hosts a Conversation with DC Sports Teams’ Top Lawyers
BY JACK FREDERICK AND BRICE HELMS
“This move not only empowers women in the field of sports management but (also promotes) gender equality and challenging stereotypes within the sports industry.”
sets a progressive precedent for other cities to follow suit, promoting gender equality and challenging stereotypes within the sports industry.
Furthermore, having women as general counsel for all four major sports teams can positively impact the organizational culture and dynamics within these teams. Research consistently shows that diverse leadership teams lead to enhanced creativity, improved problem-solving, and increased overall performance.
(Leſt to right) Professor Jeremi Duru; Julie Jensen, SPA/BA ’95, WCL/JD ’02; the Nationals’ Betsy Philpott; the Spirits’ Shameeka Quallo; Abby Blomstrom of Monumental Sports and Entertainment, which owns the Washington Capitals, Wizards, and Mystics; the Commanders’ Mali Friedman; and Dean Roger A. Fairfax Jr. (Photo by Keith Pierce)
Washington, DC, is unique among cities that boast a professional sports team in the “Big 4” of American professional sports (MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL). In a time when diversity and inclusion are being challenged by states across the country, the nation’s capital shines as an example with women-led general counsel for the Commanders, Nationals, Capitals, and Wizards.
This goes beyond mere representation; it is a crucial step toward breaking
10 THE ADVOCATE SUMMER/FALL 2024
gender barriers in a traditionally male- dominated industry. By appointing women to such pivotal roles, the teams not only foster inclusivity but also send a powerful message about the importance of diversity in leadership. Women bring unique perspectives, skills, and experiences to the table, contributing to a more well-rounded and innovative decision-making process.
This move not only empowers women in the field of sports management but also
As Washington, DC, pioneers this inclusive approach, it stands as a beacon for other cities and teams to recognize the untapped potential within their own talent pool. The move promotes the idea that gender should not be a barrier to pursuing high-profile roles in sports management, ultimately contributing to the long-term shiſt in perceptions and attitudes surrounding gender equality in the sports industry.
The event, sponsored by AUWCL’s Sport and Society Initiative, featured four general counselors representing six Washington sports teams: the Commanders’ Mali Friedman, the Spirit’s Shameeka Quallo, the Nationals’ Betsy Philpott, and Abby
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