Pioneers of Practice

Bob Woolf

1928 - 1993

Bob Woolf was a pioneering Boston-based sports lawyer who utilized what he termed "friendly persuasion" to negotiate landmark contracts for some of the nation’s most renowned athletes and entertainers of his time. As one of the first sports agents, he distinguished himself not only through his exceptional negotiating skills but also with a unique sense of ethical responsibility. Mr. Woolf’s contributions and influence made him one of the most respected figures in the profession, making him truly worthy of induction into the National Sports Agent Hall of Fame as a Pioneer.

1930-2003

Mark Hume McCormack was an American lawyer, sports agent, and writer who founded and served as chairman of International Management Group (IMG), a global management organization for sports figures and celebrities. Widely recognized as the first "super agent," Mark represented some of the greatest icons in the sporting world. His pioneering work and transformative impact on the sports industry make him truly deserving of induction into the National Sports Agent Hall of Fame as a trailblazer and pioneer.

John Wooten

1936-Present

John B. Wooten is a true pioneer in the National Football League, with an impressive career spanning roles as a player, player agent, scout, and executive. As an agent, he broke significant barriers by becoming the first person of color to represent multiple first-round selections in the NFL draft. His on-field achievements include a successful career as a guard for the Cleveland Browns and Washington Redskins. Beyond his career, Wooten's enduring legacy is underscored by his founding of the Fritz Pollard Alliance, an influential advocacy group that collaborates with the NFL to promote minority hiring in coaching, scouting, and front-office positions. As the first successful sports agent of color, John is a most worthy inductee as a Pioneer into the National Sports Agent Hall of Fame.

1942 - Present

Marvin Demoff is a prominent NFL sports agent and founder of leading sports agency, Demoff & Associates. With over four decades of experience in the industry, Demoff has represented numerous high-profile clients. His expertise in contract negotiation and player management has given him a reputation of one of the top sports agents in the industry. One of his most notable achievements was the "Draft of Quarterbacks" in 1983, where he represented four of the six big name quarterbacks picked in the first round. His notable accomplishments and landscaping of player contracts make him a worthy inductee into the National Sports Agent Hall of Fame

Howard Slusher

1937-2022

Howard Slusher was an American attorney and sports agent. He was known for his aggressive and relentless negotiation style. Howard is truly worthy of being selected to the Agent Hall of Fame as a Pioneer. He was also the first agent with a Nickname - "Hold em out Howard."