Established in 2023, the ‘innovative’ sports division at Wollens continues to grow, with an ever-expanding clientele of regional sports clubs and athletes in the South West. From the South Devon office, practice head Marco Floreale comes highly recommended for a ’unique ability to understand his clients’ needs’, harnessing prior sports agency expertise. Chris Hart advises on high-profile arbitration and licensing matters, while Barnstaple-based Jon Dunkley handles contentious and non-contentious employment matters for sports organisations and athletes. In Exeter, Craig Smith specialises in sports litigation and dispute resolution.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Wollens are great to work with. They are really good at delivering legal services efficiently. As counsel working with them, I was particularly impressed by their use of technology. Another factor which is impressive is their commitment to sustainability.’
‘Marco Floreale stands out for his unique ability to understand his clients' needs. He knows how to communicate with them and what drives them. He is not just a lawyer, he helps his clients maintain critical relationships with national governing bodies in difficult circumstances. He gives frank advice when needed, but is always very supportive.’
'The team is always looking for innovation which delivers good value and quality for clients, including the use of AI tools which can enhance the service and quality.’
‘Marco Floreale does not just know the law, he knows the game.'
- 'As a sports lawyer, Marco Floreale takes time to understand a client's goals and their desired outcomes, often in the heat of media scrutiny. He can balance the need to give both legal and reputational advice, including how to handle the fan interest which comes with sports clubs.’
- ‘Marco Floreale is outstanding at building rapport and trust with his infectious personality. He really invests time in our relationship and flexes his approach to meet my preferences. Having worked with him for a number of years, I have gained a strong insight and trust in his knowledge and expertise.’
Key clients
- Torquay United Football Club / The Bryn Consortium
- Exeter City Football Club
- Yeovil Town Football Club
- Edel McMahon
- Susie Appleby
- Anna Whitworth-Hay
- Theo Hester
- Felix Barrow
- D C Talent
Work highlights
Assisted the Bryn Consortium with its high-profile takeover and rescue of Torquay United Football club.
Assisting Edel McMahon, the Co-Captain of Ireland Women’s National Rugby Union Team and Exeter Chief’s player, in securing sponsorships and endorsements with a particular focus on the lead up to the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
Advised on the sale of a professional Football Club: We were instructed to identify a buyer, establish a data room, and facilitate negotiations after a previous consortium withdrew from the process.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Marco Floreale
Other key lawyers
Chris Hart; Jon Dunkley; Craig Smith