Irvine, Calif. – JAMS, the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide, and the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) are pleased to announce that they have agreed that JAMS will provide arbitration services for disputes focused on safeguarding issues.
Effective Dec. 15, 2024, this agreement will establish JAMS as the independent dispute resolution institution to resolve charges brought by the WTA against those alleged to have committed acts rising to the level of safeguarding violations or bullying. This agreement marks the first step by the WTA in the development of its Safeguarding Program, which includes a unique Code of Conduct calling for external arbitrators for appeals relating to sanction decisions and interim measures hearings for violations of its Safeguarding Code.
“The safety of our players, staff and support teams is a top priority for the WTA and requires a multifaceted approach. This agreement with JAMS will serve as part of the solution that seeks to protect all those involved in our tennis community. The ability to utilize JAMS’ experienced panelists will be a tremendous asset for the WTA, and we look forward to a future where our members can compete in tennis free of safeguarding issues.”
Lindsay Brandon, WTA Director of Safeguarding
Founded by Billie Jean King in 1973 on the principle of equal opportunity, the WTA is the global leader in women’s professional sports. It is one of the world’s most recognizable and high-profile sports organizations, consisting of more than 1,650 players representing over 80 nations, all competing to earn WTA rankings points and prestigious tournament titles. The Hologic WTA Tour consists of over 70 events and four Grand Slams, spanning six continents and nearly 30 countries and regions, with a global audience of more than 1 billion.
“JAMS has a long history of supporting dispute resolution in sport in the United States and abroad. We are assembling a diverse international panel of arbitrators to meet the needs of the WTA for its many events around the world. We believe that the agreement is a vital step to creating a fair path for the efficient resolution of sports discipline cases, and we are proud to be part of a process that supports meaningful change within the sport.”
John Pardun, JAMS Solutions vice president
More information about the WTA can be found here. Additionally, organizations within the world of sport and other industries are invited to learn more about how JAMS can serve their program case needs by contacting solutions@jamsadr.com.
About JAMS – Local Solutions. Global Reach.
Founded in 1979, JAMS is the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution services worldwide. With a roster of over 450 neutrals and 29 locations, JAMS successfully resolves and manages tens of thousands of business and legal disputes by providing efficient, cost-effective and impartial ways to overcome barriers at any stage of conflict. JAMS offers customized in-person, virtual and hybrid resolution services locally and globally through a combination of industry-specific experience, first-class client service, the latest technology and highly trained mediators and arbitrators.
Building on this foundation, JAMS Pathways focuses on early conflict resolution, facilitation and training. Learn more about JAMS Pathways at jamspathways.com.
More information about JAMS is available at www.jamsadr.com, and you can connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and our JAMS ADR blog. To learn about diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives at JAMS, visit www.jamsadr.com/diversity/.