With at least three Lancer student-athletes attending law school this year, the timing has never been better for Windsor Law professor Shanthi Senthe to make an impact in the area of sports law.

Now in its second year, the stand-alone course addresses regulatory and legal challenges in professional and intercollegiate sports, placing an emphasis on commercial issues.

“The professional sports industry is valued at more than $73 billion,” says Senthe. “This class uses innovative pedagogical tools and collaborative networks to enhance the learning experience.”

In an effort to share her passion with like-minded law students, Senthe has designed a lecture series as a component of the course curriculum.

“The goal is to create a dynamic learning space for students by hosting guest speakers throughout the year, such as high-profile athletes, lawyers, legal academics, agents, physicians, and journalists from Canada and the United States,” she says.

The Sports Law Lecture Series will open Wednesday, Sept. 25, with a presentation by Detroit Tigers representatives Alan Avila, associate counsel, and Sam Menzin, director of baseball operations, at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law.

For a few Windsor Law students, the course is something they can undoubtedly relate to.

First-year student Chris Osei-Kusi joined the Lancer football team on the field this month, while first-year Laura DeMarco and second-year Jamie Oleksiew, both of the Dual JD program, gear up to play for the Lancers women’s golf team this season.

—Rachelle Prince