As part of a monthly feature, we get to know a little more about the organisations and the individuals that support the work of the Federation.
This month it’s the turn of Larry Fenelon of Lemans Solicitors, a true man of many sporting interests.
Can you tell us a little about how your business partners with the Federation and its members?
We are the official legal partner to the Federation. We work closely with the federation to educate its members on their legal responsibilities. We act for over 30 NGB’s from the largest to the smallest. We are the only law firm in Ireland to have a dedicated and experienced sports law team.
What are some of the ways in which members might use your services?
We help NGB’s to be better run organisations. We draft constitutions and Memorandum & Articles of Association to reflect a modern and fit for purpose organisation and to improve governance.
We also are renowned for drafting complaints and disciplinary rules, selection criteria, data protection policies and sponsorship or partnership agreements.
What is your personal background in sport?
I played Rugby. I’m a Dubs fan and love all things GAA. I play squash and cycle in response to my mid-life crisis. As a night owl I’ll watch anything from Motor Sport to American Football.
What do you find most interesting about working in and around the sporting sector?
If you can marry sport and work, you are doing well. Working with passionate and dedicated people who are largely volunteers is very uplifting.
Sport matters to a lot of people. It matters to me. We are usually at the coal face of resolving disputes for NGB’s which can be very fast paced and interesting.
What was the last sports event you attended?
My son’s debut for Wanderers U7’s against Lansdowne and also my daughter’s Camogie match for Clanna Gael Fontenoy against Erin Go Bragh on the same day.
Before that the Men’s All Ireland Senior Football Final in Croke Park.
If you had an open ticket which sporting event around the world would you attend?
The 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.
And if you could arrange for one victory for a sports team or star that matters to you what would it be?
Dublin to lift Sam Maguire for an unprecedented 5 in a row, with Diarmaid Connelly as captain!
