I do not have a post graduate degree. May I still apply?
There is a provision in the Regulations for those who do not meet the minimum education prerequisite to be approved to sit for the seminar and examination. You will need to document any experience you would like for us to consider in lieu of the advanced degree. You should send this information to the NFLPA as soon as possible to after submitting your application electronically. If the information you send in to supplement your application is not sufficient, you may under the Regulations appeal your case to the arbitrator. Your case will most likely be heard prior to the examination in 2010. You should carefully consider filing if you do not meet this requirement as the application is not refundable.
- What is required for me to attend the seminar in 2010 if I did not pass the examination successfully in 2009 or I was approved to attend the seminar in 2009 but did not?
You should update, if necessary the previously filed application or simply submit a new notary page if nothing has changed in the previously filed application. You will not need to pay the application fee if 2010 is your second consecutive application. It would be extremely helpful if you include a cover letter indicating this is a re-application when you send it to the NFLPA. It must be submitted via regular mail during the specified application period. You will not be given any special consideration if it is filed after January 31. Access the PDF of the Regulations (Appendix A-14) to get the acknowledgement page.
- What happens if I am approved to attend the 2010 New Agent Seminar and I cannot attend?
If you are unable to attend the 2010 New Agent Seminar you may attend the seminar in 2011 and the application fee will be waived. If you missed the exam in 2009 and are unable to attend in 2010, you have to pay the application fee the next time you apply. The seminar and exam is given once each year.
- What time will the examination end?
Testing is scheduled to begin at 1:30 on the final day of the seminar. You have three hours to take the exam, but you are free to leave if you finish early.
- When will the results be available and how will I be notified?
You should receive exam results via e-mail and regular mail within four weeks of taking the test. If you pass the exam, you will only be notified that you have passed. If you do not pass the exam, you will be sent a copy of your answer sheet and a list of key codes (correct answers) for the test. You will not be able to review any examination questions.
- What happens if I do not pass the 2010 examination?
If you do not pass the 2010 exam, you may attend the 2011 New Agent Seminar and take the exam again. In order to attend the 2011 seminar, you must submit an updated application during the prescribed filing period but you will not need to pay an additional application fee. The fee waiver only applies to the 2011 seminar. If you also fail the 2011 exam, you are prohibited from filing an application for 5 years.
- When can I begin to sign players?
If you pass the examination, you will receive an invoice and information concerning obtaining the required liability insurance. Once we have verified both payments have been made, we will send Standard Representation Agreements (SRA's) and you may begin to sign players immediately. You can expect to become fully certified by October 1, 2010.
- How much is the annual fee and when is it due?
The annual fee is currently $1,200 (subject to change) if you represent less than 10 active players and $1700 (subject to change) if you represent 10 or more active players. An invoice and instructions will be sent along with your exam results and is payable immediately. The application fee paid in January covered application review, background investigation, the seminar and examination. The annual fee payment in September 2010 will keep your status active through September 2011 and cover required seminar registration cost.
- If I pass the exam, when and where are the next required seminars?
Contract Advisors who pass the exam at 2010 New Agent Seminar are required to attend at least one seminar in 2011. Typically, there are three one-day seminars every year: one during the NFL Scouting Combine in February in Indianapolis; one on the West Coast during the spring; and one in conjunction with the Sports Lawyers Association's annual conference.
- What circumstances will cause a lapse in my certification?
If you do not attend a required seminar or pay the annual fee on time in any given year, your status as a certified contract advisor with the NFLPA will lapse. The NFL Clubs and your clients will be notified immediately that you are not permitted to negotiate NFL contracts. If your certification should lapse for any reason, you are required to apply attend the seminar and pass the exam.
If you do not negotiate a single NFL Player Contract (excluding practice squad) within a three-year period, you will lose your certification. You may regain certification by submitting a new application, attending the seminar, and passing the exam.
Engaging in any activity which violates the prohibited conduct section of the NFLPA Regulations Governing Contracts Advisors or not complying with any other amendments that may arise.
- Are the meetings recorded?
You are not permitted to take photos of any of the presentations nor may they be recorded. You are, however, allowed to use your laptop for taking notes and for reference during the exam. NFLPA staff reserves the right to dismiss anyone that violates any stated policy during the seminar or during the examination.
- What is the seminar attire?
Business casual is suitable. You should also consider also having a light weight jacket available.