CHARLES W. MENTKOWSKI SPORTS LAW ALUMNA OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sarah A. Padove, Law ’12
Hobeken, N.J.
Sarah started playing softball when she was seven years old and later competed at a collegiate level. Now, as Major League Baseball's senior coordinator for baseball and softball development, she channels her passion into giving kids around the world the same opportunity to play ball.
In high school, Sarah knew she wanted to work in baseball, but wasn’t entirely sure how. After attending Indiana University as a collegiate athlete, she decided to pursue a law degree at Marquette because of its sports law program. She credits the program with invaluable networking and mentorship opportunities, particularly from Professor Paul Anderson. Classes such as “Legal and Business Issues in Baseball,” which was taught by industry executives, gave her unique insight that benefited her when she joined Major League Baseball in 2013.
Sarah is senior coordinator of baseball and softball development for MLB. Her work is focused on nationwide youth initiatives that get kids on the field and encourage them to use sports to develop leadership and give back to their communities. “Only a small percentage of athletes we work with will ultimately play professionally,” she says, “so we consistently stress the importance of becoming a ‘Major League Citizen.’” In fact, while in a previous role at MLB, Sarah served as a volunteer coach for one of these programs, Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI).
After a 12-year hiatus, softball is set to return to the Olympic Games. Sarah’s group is spearheading MLB’s support of USA Softball and the Olympic softball team.
Still grateful for Marquette’s alumni network, Sarah regularly participates in alumni career panels to share advice with current and prospective students.
Fun Fact:
Sarah took after her parents in more ways than one. They also are lawyers and big baseball fans. They met in law school and had their first date at a White Sox game.