Punter Austin McNamara talked to students taking Sports Management and Sports Law
December 2025 – Students in Drew University’s Sports Management and Sports Law courses recently got a behind-the-scenes look into the world of professional and college sports with a visit from New York Jets punter Austin McNamara.
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The two sports business courses are taught by professional sports agent Robert Roche, who serves as an assistant professor of practice in business at Drew.
Roche called on one of his local NFL clients to provide students with rare access to a professional athlete.
McNamara brought his perspective to topics covered in Roche’s courses, and gave students the chance to ask questions to someone living the scenarios they are learning about.
“Austin’s talk was full of wisdom as well as great insight to the daily life of an NFL player,” said Dulce Gonzalez C’26. “It was a great talk.”
“It was a very unique experience to learn how things work in professional sports and what life looks like for athletes,” added Connor Jepson C’27.
In addition to his NFL experience, both athlete- and business-wise, McNamara also touched on the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) landscape in college athletics, pulling from his time playing at Texas Tech University.
“Hearing Austin speak was a unique experience that showed the business aspect of an athlete’s career,” said Charles Thornton C’28.
“I really enjoyed Austin’s talk,” said Emily Bass C’27. “I especially appreciated his discussion about the expectations that come with playing at such a high level, and how essential it is to stay grounded and rely on your support system.”
Roche’s two sports courses are part of a growing focus on the subject within Drew’s business program. Roche regularly provides real-world examples and situations for students based on his own industry experience, including mock contract negotiations, creating marketing plans for athletes, and pitching presentations to represent athletes.
