Minneapolis attorney selected as Chair of the American Bar Association Sports Division

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An Indian American attorney at Stinson LLP,  Aalok Sharma was named chair of the Sports Division American Bar Association (ABA) Forum on the Entertainment and Sports Industries. He begins his term this month.

As chair of the division, Sharma from Minneapolis, MN will oversee efforts to continue the division’s growth, and to examine novel legal and business issues in the sports world, including those addressing amateur and collegiate athletes, sports unions, teams, leagues, venue management, sports data, esports and legalized sports wagering, according to a press release by Stinson.

“As vice chair of ABA Sports, Aalok demonstrated tremendous leadership and industry expertise while bringing a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to the organization,” as former Co-Chairs Daniel Werly, General Counsel of the Tennessee Titans, and Laura Warren, General Counsel of the Chicago Fire Football Club were quoted saying in the release.

“We are thrilled to announce Aalok as the new chair of ABA Sports and look forward to him leading and growing the organization in the years to come,” they added.

In 2019, Sharma was recognized by the ABA as a leading sports lawyer of the next generation. The Hennepin Lawyer, Minnesota Lawyer, U.S. Bets, Sport Techie, WCCO Radio and more, have featured his sports law practice. He also sits on the board of directors of the Minnesota Twins Community Fund, and is a frequent contributor to Stinson’s quarterly sports newsletter, At the Corners.

“I am excited for the opportunity to chair the sports division for the next two years and to work with innovative sports lawyers who share the same passion for their business,” Sharma said in the release. “Front offices, investors and ownership groups are rapidly evolving as their businesses adapt to the future of sports. In my new role with the ABA, we will be looking to support our colleagues in every step of the way in this new legal and business world.”

Prior to becoming an attorney, Sharma worked as a certified public accountant in Washington, DC.