MSLA invites all members, law students, and community members to join us at the Fourth Annual MSLA Grand Finals Breakfast!

As one of Australia’s most beloved sports, the Australian Football League (AFL) culminates every September with its highly anticipated final series, where the top 8 teams compete for the coveted AFL Premiership.

In 2025, the AFL remains at the centre of important legal and ethical debates that continue to shape the future of the game. This season has seen the league implement new tribunal processes designed to deliver greater consistency in decision-making, while the record-breaking broadcast rights deal is transforming the way fans engage with football across Australia. At the same time, evolving concussion management protocols and ongoing conversations around player wellbeing are ensuring that athlete health remains a top priority. Broader discussions about sports integrity, diversity, and the AFL’s national expansion strategy are also setting the agenda for the years ahead.

Don’t miss MSLA’s flagship event, featuring an expert panel of sports lawyers who play critical roles in navigating the AFL’s complex legal landscape.

We are also delighted to welcome special guests who will be seated with students, including practicing sports lawyers, current AFL/AFLW players, and MSLA alumni embarking on their legal careers. They will share unique insights and experiences with attendees.

Dress code: Business casual with an AFL scarf representing your club of choice

MSLA members enjoy discounted tickets! Not a member yet? MSLA membership is FREE for all MLS JD and LLM students. Sign up here: https://forms.gle/2EfXzxtKxNTxgGJe9

Meet the Panellists:

Stephen Meade - AFL General Counsel
Stephen Meade is the AFL’s General Counsel, overseeing the league’s legal, governance, risk, and integrity functions. A former partner at K&L Gates, he has guided the AFL through major reforms in player welfare, tribunal processes, and corporate governance.

Hannah Hopper - Executive General Manager, Legal, Risk & Integrity, Richmond Football Club
Hannah Hopper leads Legal, Risk & Integrity at the Richmond Football Club, managing compliance, governance, and ethical issues at one of the AFL’s most high-profile clubs. She plays a key role in shaping Richmond’s approach to risk and integrity in the modern game.

Brendan Schwab - GM Legal Affairs & Player Advocacy, AFL Players’ Association
Brendan Schwab is the AFL Players’ Association’s General Manager of Legal Affairs & Player Advocacy, where he represents players on critical matters of rights, negotiation, and welfare. He is also a leading figure in athlete representation globally, having co-founded player associations in Australia and contributed to international frameworks for player rights.