Incorporating the Criminal Law in Sport Studies

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to provide an outline for teaching the criminal law in a sport studies (or related) course. The article discusses the differences among various crimes and whether physical violence involves legitimate or illegitimate force during a sports contest. Even non-violent (white collar) crimes such as the incident at the University of Toledo demonstrate how the criminal law can weave its way into the legal environment of sport. The article also notes how crimes can be committed in all environments and at all levels: youth sport, recreational activities and leagues, amateur competition and in the professional ranks. It offers that crimes can be committed by coaches, fans, parents, agents, referees, and others. The study of the criminal law and its relationship to sport is quite broad, so the articles recommends that establishing a solid outline prior to teaching this section of any course is vital. The article also reviews various state and federal laws including ticket scalping, the Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) and the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA).

Keywords: PASPA, RICO, Mail Fraud, Wire Fraud, Assault, Battery, Hazing, Ticket Scalping, Stalking, Sports Bribery, Sports Wagering, Implied Consent, Violence, Sports Law, Criminal Law, Sport Studies