Disability Accommodations

Sports

We understand the unique challenges faced by athletes with disabilities, especially when it comes to obtaining medical exemptions for substances banned by their leagues or governing bodies. A common misconception in the world of sports is that a “disability” has to be physical. This is false. A “disability” can also be mental. A person with a disability is one who (1) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities or major bodily functions; (2) has a record of such an impairment; or (3) is regarded as having such an impairment.

Often times, athletes are prescribed medications that are banned by their league or governing body. For example, an NFL playbook will typically have hundreds of plays, so what if the player has ADHD and is prescribed medication like Adderall to focus. As you would probably expect, Adderall is banned by the NFL—so is the player banned from taking this prescription? The short answer: no, and automatically banning a player from taking medication to treat a disability may run afoul of state and federal discrimination laws.

Our firm is an advocate for athletes to obtain these essential medical exemptions, allowing them to compete at the highest levels without facing discrimination from bureaucratic governing bodies.

The Challenges

Professional athletes often require the use of certain medications or substances that are prohibited under league rules. Securing exemptions can be a daunting task due to:

Stringent Regulations

  • Complex Requirements: Sports leagues have rigorous standards and documentation requirements for medical exemptions.

  • Bias and Misunderstanding: There can be a lack of understanding or bias against the need for certain medications, leading to unjust denials.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

  • Stress and Anxiety: The process of applying for exemptions can be stressful, with significant emotional stakes tied to career performance.

  • Stigmatization: Athletes may face stigma from peers, fans, and officials who do not understand the necessity of their medical treatments.

Professional Consequences

  • Performance Impact: Without necessary medications, athletes may not perform at their best, risking their careers and livelihoods.

  • Career Delays: Denials or delays in obtaining exemptions can hinder career progression and competitive opportunities.

Our Solution: Expert Legal Support

Our dedicated team is committed to helping athletes navigate the complex process of obtaining medical exemptions. We provide comprehensive legal support to ensure that athletes receive the accommodations they need. Here’s how we can help:

Personalized Approach

  • Each case is unique, and we tailor our strategies to meet the specific medical and professional needs of each athlete.

Knowledge

  • Our attorneys are well-versed in the legal and regulatory frameworks governing medical exemptions in sports.

Comprehensive Support

  • From initial consultation to final approval, we guide our clients through every step of the process, including documentation, application, and appeals if necessary.