In a groundbreaking move, Rutgers Athletics and Rutgers Law School have joined forces to launch an innovative externship program. This initiative aims to provide law students with practical, hands-on experience in the field of intercollegiate athletics law.
The program, set to begin in Fall 2026, will immerse students in the legal and regulatory issues surrounding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), NCAA compliance, contracts, and institutional governance. Students will work closely with athletics department leadership to bridge academic knowledge with real-world application.
Rutgers Athletics and Law School Partnership
This partnership is designed to enhance the educational experience of law students while benefiting student-athletes. Rutgers Director of Athletics Keli Zinn says the program connects academic excellence with practical experience.
Law students will have the chance to work directly with the athletics department. The program prepares them for careers in sports law and related fields.
Program Structure and Opportunities
The externship will be supervised by Chris Chung, Senior Associate Athletic Director, Revenue and Contract Management. Students will participate in a variety of projects, including:
- Conducting legal research on NCAA regulations, conference rules, and state NIL laws.
- Analyzing contracts and sponsorship agreements.
- Assisting with athletics compliance efforts and policy development.
Students will also support employment and administrative legal matters. They will draft and review employment-related documents, assist with scholarship and aid agreements, and contribute to policy and risk management efforts.
Hands-On Experience in a Fast-Evolving Field
This externship offers valuable hands-on experience. Matthew Saleh, Senior Associate Dean of Enrollment Management & Financial Aid, notes that many Rutgers Law students have a background in Division I athletics or professional sports organizations.
The program gives these students the chance to gain direct, practical experience in sports law. This experience is designed to help them prepare for their future careers.
Engaging with the Legal Landscape of Intercollegiate Athletics
Participants will explore a variety of legal areas, gaining expertise in:
- Contract review and regulatory analysis.
- Policy drafting and development.
- Risk management and institutional governance.
Through these projects, students will develop core legal skills. They will also learn how legal considerations affect athletics administration and operations.
Benefits for Student-Athletes
The externship benefits both law students and Rutgers’ student-athletes. By expanding legal resources for the athletics department, the program supports student-athletes in matters related to NIL, compliance, and other legal issues.
This collaboration helps ensure student-athletes receive quality guidance and representation. It strengthens the university’s support system for student-athletes.
Supporting the Sports Medicine Unit
The program also offers externs the chance to support the sports medicine unit. Students will help develop clinical affiliation agreements and documentation protocols to reduce institutional risk.
This experience is valuable for students interested in sports medicine and law. It provides real-world exposure to the intersection of these fields.
Preparing the Next Generation of Sports Lawyers
Rutgers Law Dean Johanna Bond says the partnership supports the law school’s mission of expanding access to legal education and empowering students. The externship builds on Rutgers Law School’s strong training in sports law and professional team management.
Real-World Application of Academic Knowledge
Through this externship, students can apply their academic knowledge to real-world situations. This practical experience helps prepare them for careers in sports law and related areas.
The program ensures students are ready to navigate the legal challenges of intercollegiate athletics. It gives them the skills needed for success in the field.
Conclusion
The new externship program between Rutgers Athletics and Rutgers Law School is a pioneering initiative. It promises to benefit both law students and student-athletes.
The program provides hands-on experience in the legal and regulatory aspects of intercollegiate athletics. This helps prepare future sports lawyers for successful careers.
For more information, visit the official announcement on the Scarlet Knights website.
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