Seattle Seahawks football player Eddie Lacy recently received a $55,000 employment bonus – not for his performance on the field, but for weighing a required weight at the beginning of training camp.
ESPN.com reported on this and other clauses in the employment contracts of professional athletes, including:
why Michael Jordan’s “love for the game” clause specifically allowing him to play basketball anytime, anywhere;
why Baseball Hall of Famer Rollie Fingers was paid a bonus to grow his famous mustache; and
why English footballer Stefan Schwarz was prohibited from traveling into space.
The takeaway from these unique clauses: when drafting your employment contracts, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. A creative contract may be just what is needed to attract or retain a talented employee.