ASU Law grad looks forward to generating positive change in sports industry

Editor's note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2021 graduates.

“Outline your life in pencil, not in pen.”

That's the advice Trevor Brendlin gives to current students at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, as he’s about to earn his Master of Sports Law and Business (MSLB) degree this fall.

“Your plans and goals will change throughout your time in school and life,” says the Bakersfield, California, native and a recipient of the city’s Grimmway Farms’ Rod and Bob Grimm Memorial Scholarship. “Take your time in school to try new things and get various experiences. Don’t be afraid to venture into new industries that interest you. Your story doesn’t have to be linear; make your time in school memorable.”

Question: Why did you choose ASU Law?

Answer: Arizona State University is a leader in innovation and they continue to push the envelope with their top 25 law school. ASU provides vast and unique opportunities for students to break into their chosen profession. This includes the Allan “Bud” Selig Sports Law and Business program, which integrates a legal and business education with a focus on the sports industry. No other program in the country provides this distinctive opportunity to network, learn and work under prominent sports professionals with legal and business backgrounds. With all of these opportunities and connections, along with being located in the beautiful Phoenix Metro Valley, choosing ASU was an easy decision.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU Law?

A: I learned so much from Professor Dana Hooper who is a transcendent sports lawyer and agent. Professor Hooper challenged our thought process in a way that makes you think of sports from a different perspective. We discussed in class the cultural aspects of sports and how they impact the larger cultural community. Sports provide a great opportunity to connect the world and make a positive impact on society. It transcends languages and cultural differences and can teach many valuable lessons. Professor Hooper acknowledges this and promotes sports through the role of changing the world.

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: My plan after graduation is to further my education in law and utilize my skills in the sports industry. While working with several sports agencies during my time at ASU, I have learned how necessary it is to have quality representation on the sides of athletes and entertainment personalities. So many people are deceived or taken advantage of and these people need support on their side. I want to provide integrity to an agency that aims to connect the world through sports and help generate positive change.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: Agriculture has been a big part of my life and I would want to provide clean water and accessible food for those in need. Across the world, and even in America, millions of people are without water or food. This unfathomable thought is ever present during COVID as people are starving and without clean water. With family in Malawi, Africa, I would set up irrigation and agricultural procedures across Africa and other undernourished locations.