Welcome to the 51st Annual SLA Conference
We are excited to invite you to the 2026 Sports Lawyers Association (SLA) Annual Conference, taking place May 13–16, 2026 at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk in Chicago, Illinois.
Coming off the extraordinary success of our 50th Anniversary Conference in Nashville, which drew record-breaking attendance, we are eager to build on that momentum. Last year’s celebration honored five decades of impact in sports law, and this year we look ahead with renewed energy and vision.
Our 2026 theme—Going Beyond the Game: Growing the Landscape of Sport—reflects the expanding influence of sports law in shaping the industry and society at large. Together, we’ll explore how legal professionals are driving innovation, equity, and growth across the global sports landscape.
Recognized worldwide as the premier gathering for sports law professionals, the SLA Annual Conference offers an unparalleled forum to connect, collaborate, and engage with leading experts and trailblazers. Expect inspiring discussions, practical insights, and opportunities to expand your professional network.
This is more than an event—it’s a chance to:
- Engage with thought leaders redefining the future of sports law
- Explore new perspectives on governance, business, and athlete advocacy
- Grow alongside peers committed to advancing the profession and the industry
Mark your calendar and join us in Chicago in May as we continue to build on SLA’s legacy and chart the future of sports law.
Christopher McCleary
President, Sports Lawyers Association
CJ Davis
2026 Annual Conference Chair
Warren K. Zola
2026 Annual Conference Vice Chair
Arthur McAfee
2026 Annual Conference Consulting Chair