Shaping Futures in Sports Law - NLS Sports Law Alumni Event 2026
Now in its third successful year, the event brought together LLB and LLM Sports Law students with graduates from across cohorts, creating a tailored space to explore careers in sport, law and beyond, as well as opportunities in research, study and professional development.
Published on 17 March 2026
As usual, the graduates enjoyed lunch on arrival and spent time exchanging memories of their time at NTU. This year, the sustainability of the network really shone through, with graduates inspiring others in their careers. They also value catching up with Simon Boyes, Senior Lecturer, who made such a lasting impact on their NLS studies.
The event began with a panel session where the graduates shared their diverse career journeys and advised on research and studying. Students were then asked to reflect on what NTU-distinctive skills they have refined during their studies, and the graduates facilitated those discussions. Following that, the students networked directly with the graduates, asking questions and seeking guidance from industry professionals.
Over 60 LLB Sports Law and LLM Sports Law students were in attendance and they stayed beyond the scheduled time to interact with the graduates. Kirsty Wilkinson, head of development, alumni and supporter engagement also attended.
We covered a range of topics and could have continued much longer. This year really stood out because the students seemed dedicated to listening, getting reassurance and direction about their future. The main talking points were developing core skills beyond subject knowledge, varied paths into employment, and the barrister route.
Student feedback:
“There was no pressure on us students having to do anything other than listen to other people's inspiring stories. Everyone you had on the panel was so friendly and really made us all feel comfortable. It was nice to hear how so many people have gone down different routes, showing that there really is no right or wrong path post-graduation. I think at this stage of our studies it was super nice to get some reassurance and helpful advise from everyone. I know this took a long time to organise so thank you again!"
"It was incredibly insightful to hear alumni speak about their career after graduating. Everyone at the event took different paths and gave useful advice about which steps we as students could take next. I particularly enjoyed hearing about jobs outside the classic solicitor or barrister route. It was reassuring to see that no one's career is linear and yet no one regrets any of the paths they took. It opened my eyes to jobs in the sports industry I haven't considered. Ciara Gallagher's career path was especially inspiring to me. Creating connections is so important to further your career and I was so grateful to be able to make some connections today. They were all remarkably friendly and genuinely interested in helping. It's so nice to see the what the LLM graduates are doing now and I can definitely see myself coming back as alumni some day!"
The students were incredibly grateful this year and did not expect to gain so much from the event. What struck me was how warm and friendly the graduates came across and I believe that is a very distinct NLS quality. Current students aspire to join my panel one day which was really touching
Dr Seema Patel
Graduate feedback:
Josh Ingham-Headland is a Sports Law LLM graduate and NTU Alumni Fellow. He works as a Judicial Panel Executive at the British Horseracing Authority . Josh said “As always a really well organised event by Seema with a great turnout. Some brilliant advice and tips from the panel that hopefully will help the students in their future careers."
Matthew Preston-Bloom, head of Cyber Risks Wordings at Beazley Insurance, graduated from LLB Law in 2015. He said, "To have around 65 students there, all engaging, with almost no interaction with their electronic devices, was incredible, and a testament to how well the event went. Imagine what could be achieved if this was an annual programme with multiple sessions each year, followed by a panel session at the end!"
Alex Fowler, recent graduate in LLB Law and now an apprentice solicitor at Harrison-Drury Solicitors said, "I wanted to take a moment to thank you for organising the Sports Law Alumni event yesterday. It was wonderful to be back at the university and to meet and engage with the students — especially as it wasn’t long ago that I was in their position. Giving back to the students is something I feel genuinely passionate about, particularly as your introduction to Matthew in my final year played such an influential role in shaping my career path. The event was exceptionally well organised, and it was clear that the students were engaged and enthusiastic. It was also a great opportunity for me to meet and speak with the other alumni, which I found both enjoyable and valuable."
The 2026 Sports Law Alumni Event once again showcased the power of the Nottingham Law School network, with students gaining invaluable insight, reassurance and inspiration for their future careers. As connections continue to grow year on year, the event remains a key moment in the student experience. The event was organised by Dr Seema Patel, whose dedication plays a vital role in its ongoing success.