Testimonials

Agent set to keep players on right path

 12:00a.m. 22nd July 2009

Byron Cannon from Ferguson Cannon Lawyers has started a sports management business called Front Row Sports Management.

THE image of the flashy, all-style-and-no-substance sports agent is in for a shake-up.

Coast lawyer Byron Cannon has partnered with old school mate Shaun Pyne, who is a finance broker, to launch a new business called Front Row Sports Management.

It was a natural progression for the duo, who had been doing legal and financial work for rugby league players as part of their day-to-day business.

“We were getting a lot of negative feedback about their player management,” Mr Cannon, partner in Ferguson Cannon, said.

“They complained about a general lack of service, of guidance and a lack of communication; that they only heard from their agents when it was contract negotiation time.

“We saw an opportunity to provide a more holistic service, concentrating on player welfare as well as their post playing careers.

“We can negotiate contracts, refer them to any specialists they need whether it's nutrition or travel, we can take care of their legal issues, estate and financial planning and investment advice so they can come out of their career with a platform for the rest of their lives.

“It is really complementary to both our businesses.”

Front Row handles anyone from a promising junior - they just signed a 16-year-old from Central Queensland to a contract with Parramatta - to existing players and those who have retired.

The business targets professional league, union, football and AFL sectors with clients from Sydney to Townsville.

Mr Cannon is making good use of a strong network that began with his father Reg, who played for Queensland in the 1960s and 70s and has been named in the Brothers team of the century.

He said the seemingly endless stories of badly-behaved footy players could be partially fixed with better management.

“Player welfare has a lot to do with it,” he said.

“Rugby league clubs are taking a really proactive approach to it and they are implementing systems to have that welfare.

“But a manager can't hold their hand 24 hours a day.

“If you have a relationship with them from an early age, however, you can instil those values and explain their responsibilities as an elite athlete, the expectations of them from the public and the fact that they are role models whether they like it or not.

“They do get paid a lot of money, but if you compare it to what baseball players are getting in the US or what soccer players get, it is not much at all.”

Perhaps reflecting a sentiment more disgraced sports stars should adopt, Mr Cannon said his philosophy in business was simply about doing the right thing with honesty and professionalism.

“If you have a relationship with them from an early age, you can instil those values and explain their responsibilities as an elite athlete, the expectations of them from the public and the fact that they are role models.”

Marc Fickling – Central Comets

I really appreciate the assistance the staff at Front Row Sports Management have given me. They have not only looked after my football interests, but also have assisted me will many lifestyle decisions. They are so supportive and accessible whenever I require their assistance. I have no hesitation in recommending their services.

Casey Conway – ex Sydney City Rooster and Male model for AussieBum

Even after my football career finished, the company looked after my interests that assisted me in establishing a new career. Their friendly approach and unique structure helped me with many aspects of my post football life. Having that expertise in so many different areas makes me feel so comfortable with the expert advice which they give me.

Dean Blackman – junior rugby league player with Parramatta Eels

I have really enjoyed having Front Row Sports Management as my mentors and managers. They help me with lots of things other than football. They are keeping me focused on my school work and help support me with my rugby league career. I know if I have a problem, they will be there to help me out.