As the sports industry faces significant transformations, Shawn O'Rourke, PhD, dean and professor in the Wehle Business School at Canisius University, is available to offer expert insights on the key issues driving changes related to revenue diversification, the growing influence of private equity in sports, sports gambling and its expansion and NCAA compliance. With extensive experience in business strategy and sports management, Dr. O'Rourke is uniquely positioned to provide insights on how technology, globalization, revenue growth, and shifting consumer behavior are reshaping the sports world.
KEY EXPERTISE:
Business strategy, revenue generation, and market trends in the sports industry
Navigating NCAA compliance, legal challenges, and the rapidly changing landscape of college sports
Data analytics, its role in player performance, fan engagement, and business decisions in sports
Private equity in sports ownership and team management
TIMELY TOPICAL INSIGHTS:
Revenue Diversification and Monetization: How sports leagues and teams are exploring new revenue streams, such as esports, NFTs, and direct-to-consumer products, to supplement traditional models like ticket sales, sponsorships, and media rights.
The Growing Influence of Private Equity in Sports: With private equity firms increasing their involvement in team ownership, Dr. O'Rourke can discuss how this shift is changing the financial landscape of sports, from commercialized team management to new business strategies.
NCAA Compliance and the Changing Landscape of College Sports: The impact of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, shifting legal frameworks, and increased scrutiny on NCAA policies are reshaping college athletics, requiring a new approach to compliance and athlete compensation.
The Role of Data and Analytics in Sports: The increasing reliance on data to drive decisions, from player performance analysis to fan behavior insights, and how sports organizations are using technology to optimize operations, engagement, and revenue.
Sports Gambling and Its Expansion: As states legalize sports betting, Dr. O'Rourke can provide insights into how this new market is reshaping the fan experience, creating new revenue opportunities, and navigating the regulatory landscape.
PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
20 years of teaching experience in sport management and administration in Canada, United States, and Europe (guest lecturer). Experience includes on-campus and online (ANGEL and Desire 2 Learn platforms) teaching in the areas of sport administration.
International Network in sport management, travelled to France, Portugal, Spain, England and Japan setting up collaborations and recruitment.
Scholarship and presentations in the area of organizational effectiveness, leadership and management education. Key areas of expertise and interest in research include: online education, social media administration, personal branding and leadership.
Developed the nationally ranked sport administration, sport management and sport product development programs at Canisius University.
EDUCATION
The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (1998)
Ph.D. Organizational Effectiveness
University of Richmond, Richmond, VA (1988)
Master of Sport Management
Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON (1986)