Anthony Catanzarite is a 2003 cum laude graduate from Ohio University and went on to earn his juris doctorate from Case Western Reserve University School of Law. Catanzarite is a licensed athlete agent, MLBPA certified agent, and licensed attorney in Ohio and West Virginia. He serves as partner of Cleveland-based law firm of Reminger, Co., L.P.A., and chairs Reminger’s Sports and Entertainment Practice Group. Catanzarite founded Arrow Sports, LLC (http://www.arrowsportsllc.com/) in 2012 and was selected as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2010, 2011, and 2013, a distinction bestowed on only 2.5% of attorneys within the State of Ohio.
D’Bria Bradshaw: When did you realize that you wanted to pursue a career as a sports agent?
Anthony Catanzarite: I have always been interested in sports, and specifically finding a way to use my law degree in the sports industry. A few years back I had the opportunity to represent a former MLB pitcher, and jumped at the chance.
D’Bria Bradshaw: How long have you been a certified MLBPA Agent? Have the skills you developed in law school helped shape your agent skills?
Anthony Catanzarite: I got my MLBPA certification this year. Absolutely, the skills and education learned through law school have been critical in terms of negotiating contracts, endorsements, etc. but have also been critical in that law school teaches you a different way to approach and resolve problems/issues. I think it is important to know that there is never just one answer or way to deal with something.
D’Bria Bradshaw: What inspired you to found Arrow Sports? How do you differentiate yourself in such a competitive market?
Anthony Catanzarite: I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to work together with many great athletes and people. I take great pride in the fact that Arrow Sports, and my approach to being an agent for professional athletes, is based upon a true personal relationship with my players. Our relationship is about much more than simply equipment and what happens on the field. My players know that I consider them part of my family, and that I will do everything I can both on and off the field to support them achieve their goals in all aspects of life. Part of what I offer my players is access to a wide variety of legal support from my law firm Reminger Co. LPA, of which I am a Partner, and Chair of the Sports and Entertainment Practice Group. Through Reminger’s 11 offices across Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana, our players have access to support for many things outside of baseball.
D’Bria Bradshaw: Where do you see yourself and the industry heading over the next 5-10 years?
Anthony Catanzarite: I like to believe in the years to come Arrow Sports will continue to grow as our family members continue to climb the ranks of their respective organizations. Like any other good business, I see the industry continuing to trend to be more focused on personal relationships and service for clients that will set apart agents and agencies.
D’Bria Bradshaw: What advice do you have for those looking to enter the representation field?
Anthony Catanzarite: Businesses and family are only as strong as the people that make them up. The importance of character, work ethic, and reliability cannot be overstated.
D’Bria Bradshaw: If you could give the 18 year old Tony some advice in 140 characters or less, what would it be?
Anthony Catanzarite: Life is about so much more than what you see 10 feet ahead of you. Don’t ever miss out on the big picture.
D’Bria Bradshaw: What are some qualities that give an agent the “it” factor in being successful in this industry?
Anthony Catanzarite: Practice what you preach. Be genuine. You are only as good as your word and your reputation. Put your players first and before my own needs.
Follow Anthony on twitter at: @tony_catan