Research Shows How to Stop Strikes in Pro Sports

GARDEN CITY, N.Y. - Nov. 22, 2014 - PRLog -- A new research paper published in Harvard's Journal of Sports & Entertainment Law argues that mediation should be utilized by American pro sports leagues to resolve conflicts, particularly contract disputes.

The article, titled titled "Both Sides Win: Why Mediation Would Improve Pro Sports," is available at http://harvardjsel.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Grabowski.pdf.

"At the moment, this method of alternative dispute resolution is seldom used in pro sports," said author Mark Grabowski, a communications professor at Adelphi University who previously worked as a lawyer and sports journalist. "But given the unique nature of sports disputes along with a mediator’s success in ending the 2012-13 National Hockey League labor strike, it should be utilized much more often, instead of management and athletes relying on the commonly used resolution methods of arbitration, litigation and protracted negotiations."

Citing examples and experts, the paper argues that mediation would improve player-management relationships, player morale and public opinion -- all while saving money. For more info, contact Grabowski at mark [at] cubreporters.org.