For those who play or watch football, passion is part of the game. Rutgers Law–Camden student Amanda McGrath says her goal to practice sports law after graduation is fueled in part from her own experience on the field of a team known across the nation for their fans’ diehard passion: the Philadelphia Eagles.
“Because I worked for an NFL franchise, I appreciate the industry and people involved. I feel a sense of obligation to the sports world because it has done so much to make me who I am today,” says the former Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader, who was in law school during her three years cheering. The time-management, discipline, and people skills needed to balance a successful legal education with the demands of performing in front of thousands of people during games and as an ambassador off the field are inspiring. But McGrath credits the professional athletes for motivating her:
“These athletes are some of the most disciplined and motivated people you will ever meet, yet they often plateau at 25 years old with no concrete plans for the future,” says the Rutgers Law-Camden student. “Unfortunately, so many women and men work all their lives towards an athletic career that sometimes doesn't last more than a few years.”
McGrath’s approach to sports law would be to focus on the person as a "whole" rather than just as an "athlete." For instance, she says she would address issues such as their second career, financial education and preserving their assets, health and safety advice, family services and other concerns that might be of issue. “I think it is paramount to connect all kinds of professionals with athletes to help them make informed decisions and support their long-term ambitions,” she adds. The physical demand on athletes has not been lost on McGrath. Her professional interests also include practicing health law. To that end, she’s currently serving as a legal extern at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, where she’s responsible for researching and drafting memos on various legal issues for the Hospital General Counsel Department.
As a law student, McGrath’s been training hard. Through her excellent ability to set and accomplish goals she’s managed to keep busy, and make a difference. She was a member of the Sports and Entertainment Law Society and was selected to join the Rutgers Law–Camden team that took second place at Tulane’s National Baseball Arbitration Competition in January. In addition to her receiving a “Best Memo” award in Legal Analysis, Research, and Writing and “Excellence in Oral Argument” award in Appellate Advocacy, she’s represented children facing delinquency charges for the Children’s Justice Clinic, and served as a teaching assistant for Rutgers Law–Camden Professor Sarah Ricks.
“When you have professors who wholeheartedly believe in your talents and push you to reach your potential, it helps you believe in yourself,” says McGrath, who earned her B.A. from Rutgers University, where she was a captain of the dance team and remains a Rutgers Football season ticket holder. “Professor Ricks instilled confidence by always pushing me 10 steps further than I thought I could go. When you have professors like that, you develop confidence in your skill-set and your willingness to take chances in life increases.”
After graduation, McGrath hopes to pursue a legal career that involves sports or health care, but has long-term dreams of becoming an influential woman in business. “My ultimate dream is to help others realize their personal value so they can confidently move forward and achieve their worth.”