I regularly chair sports disciplinary tribunals for British Cycling and am appointed by UK Athletics, British Canoeing and Badminton England to their disciplinary panels. I know what a panel likes to hear and what might harm your case. As an experienced and successful advocate in a range of Courts and tribunals I can effectively adapt my style to persuade those making the decisions. In addition I have thirty years’ experience as a sports coach, athlete and administrator working at all levels from grassroots to elite. I have an in-depth understanding of sport and great empathy with the stress experienced by any sportsman or woman undergoing a disciplinary process.
Before becoming a barrister I worked professionally as a personal trainer and coach for ten years. I coached a number of international athletes and para-athletes. I competed at national level in hockey and cross-country running and continue to compete internationally as a veteran duathlete. I have also worked for England Hockey and had roles in child protection within hockey clubs. My passion and knowledge of sport is vast and varied. This gives me an inherent advantage in representing athletes before sports disciplinary panels.
Sports in which I have worked at a national or international level either as coach, participant or administrator include:
- Athletics
- Bobsleigh
- Canoeing
- Cross-country and fell running
- Cycling
- Hockey
- Modern pentathlon
- Netball
- Swimming
- Triathlon/Duathlon
I have also played and coached recreationally in football, cricket, volleyball and many other sports.
I continue to be appointed to the disciplinary panels for British Cycling and British Canoeing so am unable to represent athletes facing action by either of these NGBs. However my range of sporting knowledge and experience is available to athletes needing assistance in any other sport.
I am willing to consider pro bono and reduced fees for non-professional athletes or those with limited funding/income. Please contact me to discuss fee options that may be available to you.