Gowling WLG centres its sports law practice on advising athletes, leagues, teams, rightsholders, sponsors and investors on commercial, IP, tax, and corporate issues. The team has advised on key issues such as arena refinancing and major stadium redevelopment projects. It advises on a range of domestic sporting issues but has also been active in overseas international sporting events. Susan Abramovitch spearheads the Toronto team and is well-versed in representing sports federations including football, hockey and rugby organizations as well as Olympic organizations, professional athletes and sporting brands. She is sought out for her expertise on commercial transactions, disputes, sponsorships, endorsements and IP. Ryan Steeves is a name to note, utilizing his experience as a former professional hockey player to advise on IP issues in the sports sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The team are very helpful in protecting our intellectual property. We rely on Gowling WLG to advise, file trademarks, patents, and everything else. They have a proven track record.'
- 'Ryan Steeves is a pro. He knows law and he knows the sport of hockey. That is key.'
- 'Understanding the nuances of amateur sport, the organization, governance and acronyms.'
- 'Approachable, nice, understand sport and its nuances.'
- 'Professional and straight forward with credibility and experience to match.'
Key clients
- Adidas (Canada)
- Commonwealth Sport Canada
- FlarrowFootball Ontario
- HockeyStickMan
- Ontario Junior Lacrosse League
- Rugby CanadaSports Dispute Management Professional
- Sport Law
- Sport Maska Reebok CCM Hockey
- Trekt Sport
- Western Hockey League (WHL)
- World Triathlon
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Susan Abramovitch
Other key lawyers
Ryan Steeves; Aarij Wasti