If you pay it close attention, there’s all kinds of ways to make a fortune in the business of sports. Here’s a story about an idea a whole bunch of law firms must be wishing they had thought of first.
For roughly sixty percent of the take, Curtis Management Group of Indianapolis has built a booming business and reputation for success, negotiating contracts and developing the business interests of inactive star athletes. That in itself isn’t unique, but their list of clients certainly is.
The majority of the inactive star athletes Curtis represent no longer play because they’re dead!
It is long established that there’s huge money to be made in appearance fees, licensing and endorsements by popular figures at the height of their careers. And, a ton of agents are waiting to pounce on the opportunity to do the marketing in an overly competitive field.
Back in the early 80’s, Mark A. Roesler, a young Indiana attorney saw his unheard of niche.
Armed with a legal knowledge of the rights of estate, and an inventive mind, Roesler set out to build his business, first focusing on deceased entertainers. Not long into his new venture, he unearthed a wealth of interest and lots of earning potential in sports legends. Promoting and protecting their rights is the bulk of his business.
Roesler’s list of clients under contract has grown to include some 80 deceased sports personalities; some of whom are earning the biggest paychecks of their er…lives. CMG’s “who’s who” stable includes the likes of Vince Lombardi, Johnny Unitas, Cy Young, Babe Ruth, and yes believe it…. Cigar.
Technologies such as realistic computer animation and super-imposed video imaging can bring sports legends of the past into the present to share the screen with live actors in modern day situations. The possibilities seem boundless and it all seems so natural.
There’s some very real advantages working with personalities whose never say die attitude is what made them famous in the first place.
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