Aysu Ingrid Haker and Joshua Michael-Ihunde represented Kent Law School in the national Gately Legal Sports Law Negotiation Competition.
The competition, which tests students on their ability to think commercially when faced with a fictitious topical legal problem within the sports industry, was hosted at the Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City Football Club.
Despite accepting the challenge to compete at short notice, Anna and Joshua (who are both final-year Law LLB students) were placed mid-table out of 22 teams.
Each team competed in two 40-minute Negotiations, judged by up to three judges (comprising lawyers, barristers, academics and professionals working in the sports industry). Teams were assessed on their preparation/use of facts; communication; flexibility in adapting their strategy; team work; rapport with fellow competitors; the outcome of the session; and ethical standards. Team members were also required to provide a reflective Self-Analysis of their performance following each Negotiation.
Aysu said: ‘Not only did I receive some helpful feedback on my negotiation skills from judges working in both the sports and legal sectors, but I had the opportunity to do so at the Etihad Stadium, of all places!’
Negotiation is one of three alternative dispute resolution options open to law students at Kent; the other two are Mediation and Client Interviewing. Students can also develop practical legal skills through participation in the work of Kent Law Clinic, and by taking extra-curricular modules in Mooting and Mock Trial Advocacy.