The International Conference on Sports Law & Practice (ICSLP) held on August 24, 2024, at the Heritage Guild Hall, was an event of significant academic and professional importance. Organized by the Department of Business Law, Physical Education, and Yoga at Saveetha School of Law (SSL), the conference brought together experts, scholars, and students to discuss the evolving landscape of sports law in India and beyond. Notably, this was the first time an international conference on sports law was held in Tamil Nadu, marking a significant milestone for the region.

The event commenced with a brief introduction to the purpose and significance of the conference, highlighting its role in fostering a deeper understanding of sports law. This was followed by an audiovisual presentation showcasing the achievements and contributions of Saveetha School of Law, particularly its commitment to excellence in legal education and research. The welcome address was delivered by the Principal of Saveetha School of Law, Prof. Dr. Asha Sundaram Ma'am, who set the tone for the day by emphasizing the importance of sports law in the current global context.

Following the welcome address, a felicitation ceremony was conducted to honor the esteemed guests of honor: Prof. Dr. Vijay P. Tiwari Sir, Mr. Subrajit Chanda Sir, Mr. Nishanth Kumar Sir, and Dr. S. Thirumalai Kumar Sir. Each of these distinguished speakers has made significant contributions to the field of sports law and governance, and their presence added great value to the event. A special moment of the ceremony was the conferring of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Prof. Dr. Vijay P. Tiwari Sir, presented by the Principal of the Savita School of Law, in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to physical education and sports law in India.

Prof. Dr. Tiwari Sir then addressed the gathering, where he shared his insights on the current trends in doping and anti-doping regulations in India. His address provided a comprehensive overview of the challenges and developments in the field, offering valuable perspectives on how India is aligning with global standards in anti-doping measures. His talk was followed by Mr. Subrajit Chanda Sir, who provided a comparative analysis of sports law and governance between India and other countries. Mr. Chanda Sir’s address highlighted the gaps and potential areas of improvement in India's sports governance framework, drawing parallels with international best practices.

Next, Mr. Nishanth Kumar Sir took the stage to discuss the mechanisms of dispute resolution in sports. His presentation focused on the various legal avenues available for resolving conflicts in the sports industry, including arbitration and mediation, and the role of institutions like the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Dr. S. Thirumalai Kumar Sir then presented his views on the need for a dedicated sports law in India, advocating for a people-centric approach that takes into account the rights and welfare of athletes. His thought-provoking address underscored the importance of comprehensive legislation that addresses the unique challenges faced by sports professionals in India.

In a unique segment of the conference, Devendra Patel Sir, a renowned expert in sports law and governance, addressed the participants via an online mode. His talk focused on the career opportunities available in the field of sports law, encouraging students to consider this niche but growing area of legal practice. Devendra Patel Sir’s address was particularly beneficial for the students, offering them practical insights into the scope of sports law as a career.

Following the enlightening sessions by the guests of honor, the conference proceeded to the paper presentation segment. This part of the event saw students from various colleges presenting their research on topics related to sports law, as outlined in the conference brochure. The presentations covered a wide range of themes, including governance and regulatory frameworks, athlete rights and welfare, financial and economic aspects of sports, and integrity and ethics in sports. The papers were evaluated by the four guests of honor, who judged the presentations both in-person and online, providing constructive feedback to the participants.

The conference concluded with a valedictory ceremony held in the Heritage Guild Hall. Awards were presented in several categories, including Best Presenter and Best Paper, recognizing the outstanding contributions of students. Notably, Mr. Subrajit Chanda Sir was honored with the Emerging Scholar Award, an accolade that reflected his promising research and contributions to the field of sports law. The event ended with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the efforts of the organizers, faculty coordinators, and participants who made the conference a resounding success.

The ICSLP 2024 not only provided a platform for the exchange of ideas and research but also highlighted the importance of developing a robust legal framework for sports in India. The discussions and presentations at the conference are expected to contribute significantly to the ongoing dialogue on sports law, influencing policy and practice in the years to come.