What Happens When the Bubble Bursts? Why Sports Teams Must Learn From the Collapse of the Dallas Cowboys' Practice Facility

Abstract

(8 Willamette Sports L.J., no. 1, 2010, at 46). This article considers liability arising from the collapse of a practice facility—a “bubble”—used by the Dallas Cowboys, which collapsed in 2009, injuring several people. The article provides background on the practice bubbles currently used by National Football League teams and college athletic departments. Part II considers OSHA regulations, particularly the “general duty” clause, which could expose teams to financial penalties if a bubble collapse injured an employee. The article further analyzes potential tort liability for injuries caused by a bubble’s collapse, and recommends that sports teams take precautions to avoid regulatory penalties and tort liability.