We are delighted to announce our Member of the Month, Harveen Thauli.

Chartered Arbitrator; Barrister & Solicitor, Canada.

How did you get involved in sports law?

My career in Sports Law began when I was elected, as the first Canadian, to the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) Tribunal in 2017. As I began presiding over hearings and writing decisions, I realised how much I enjoyed analysing difficult legal issues and reducing complicated arguments into plain English.

I have written decisions on politically charged issues such as disqualifying a rider from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, upholding the ban on Russian/Belarusian athletes from competing in FEI events and levying a heavy sanction against a rider for a serious horse abuse.

This experience has led me to pursue my Chartered Arbitrator designation. Since then, I have been appointed to the International Tribunal of Sport Resolutions as well as its Investigations and Review Panel. I was selected for the Ordinary and Doping Tribunals of the Sports Dispute Resolution Centre of Canada (SDRCC). I have also been appointed to the Disciplinary and Appeals Tribunal of World Athletics.

What was your most memorable achievement in the sector?

One of my most memorable achievements occurred when I wrote a sufficient number of complex decisions to meet the requirements for my Chartered Arbitrator designation. I’m also particularly proud of my decisions that required critical thinking of complex legal issues such as deciding on an arbitrator’s jurisdiction to hear a contentious matter and matters of sexual harassment and abuse.

Any advice for someone trying to break in to the sector?

I recommend taking sports-related law courses. For example, the Academy of Leadership Sciences Switzerland offers a variety of courses dedicated to sports law. I also recommend attending conferences and networking as much as possible with sports lawyers. It certainly helps to have a background in, and passion for, a particular sport.

Greatest challenge you’ve had to overcome?

The sports industry is dynamic, so keeping current with frequent changes in rules and regulations can sometimes be challenging.

Why did you decide to focus on anti-doping and safeguarding?

I’m primarily focused on my arbitration practice because I believe that alternative dispute resolution is an efficient and effective method of deciding matters in dispute.

How has WISLaw helped you in your career?

WISLaw has introduced me to a supportive network of intelligent, talented and like-minded women sports lawyers as well as sports law opportunities.

What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I enjoy reading, taking courses and travelling.
My favourite sport is horse riding, especially jumping over fences! I also enjoy working out and weight training. More recently, I have taken up pickleball. 

If you weren’t a sports lawyer, what profession do you think you would have?

I wanted to be a lawyer from a young age. If I had to choose a profession outside of law (and sports law), I would be an equestrian.