In this episode of MCLE This Week, host Bruce Richard is joined by Mandy Petrillo, Assistant General Counsel, and Cameron Hammel, Senior Counsel at Fenway Sports Group. In celebration of baseball season, they share candid insights into building a legal career in professional sports. From unconventional career paths and strategic networking to the realities of in-house practice at a major sports organization. They demystify what sports lawyers actually do day-to-day, emphasizing that the role is far less about player contracts and far more about commercial agreements, intellectual property, and business operations. The conversation also explores the importance of adaptability, business-minded lawyering, and the evolving landscape of women in sports law.
Mandy and Cameron break down what it actually takes to build a career in sports law and why there is no single path in. Mandy highlights the role of persistence, networking, and starting in a non-attorney position, while Cameron shares how a traditional law firm path and a strategic in-house pivot led her to Fenway Sports Group. They also challenge common misconceptions about the field, explaining that their work focuses on commercial contracts, sponsorships, intellectual property, and business operations rather than player deals, and closely mirrors a traditional in-house legal role.
With practical insight for attorneys and law students, Mandy and Cameron discuss:
They reflect on the evolving landscape of women in sports law, highlighting increased representation and leadership in recent years, as well as the collaborative nature of in-house work. Legal teams work closely with marketing, sales, HR, and operations to support broader business goals. Ultimately, Mandy and Cameron emphasize that success depends on being a well-rounded, business-savvy lawyer who can adapt, solve problems, and contribute beyond purely legal analysis.
Featured Guests
Mandy Petrillo — Assistant General Counsel at Fenway Sports Group, Mandy has spent nearly two decades with the organization, supporting the Boston Red Sox and related entities across a wide range of commercial, intellectual property, and business matters.
Cameron Hammel — Senior Counsel at Fenway Sports Group, Cameron brings experience from both a major law firm and in-house entertainment company, advising on commercial contracts, technology agreements, and business operations within the organization.