WHO WE ARE
Robert Walker
FOUNDER/CEO, NIL 1
NIL AGENT
M.S., United States Sports Academy
B.S., Liberty University
Robert is currently the President and CEO of US Sports, Inc. Since beginning the company in 1988 as part-time work, Robert has negotiated over a thousand contracts. In 1994, Robert left his role as Athletic Director at Charlotte Christian School to focus his efforts on representing clients. US Sports, Inc. has grown into the largest NFL representation firm in the Carolinas under Robert’s direction over the last decade. Robert is registered as a certified NFL agent by the NFLPA.
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The business of sports has been the groundwork for Robert’s professional career. He has served on the boards for both Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and Sports Outreach America (SOA). He also spent a considerable amount of time coaching basketball, soccer and baseball at two different Christian schools. Products of his coaching efforts include many NCAA Division I basketball players, one NBA player, and two state championship teams. Robert Walker earned a Bachelor of Science in physical education, and a Master of Sports Science in sports management. He currently resides in the Charlotte, NC area.
Ryan Chandler
NIL AGENT
M.B.A., William & Mary
B.A., University of Florida
Ryan Chandler, originally from North Carolina, spent the majority of his life in Florida before returning to the Tar Heel state—a journey that led him to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida. He later completed his Master of Business Administration at William & Mary, further sharpening his expertise in business strategy and negotiation.
In 2021, at just 25 years old, Ryan became one of the youngest professionals to reach a director-level position at the world’s largest sneaker and apparel retailer. In this role, he led the negotiation of hundreds of high-impact deals—totaling over $1 billion in portfolio value—with globally recognized brands including Nike/Jordan, Adidas, New Balance, and others.
Ryan brings a unique combination of deep industry insight, proven negotiation skills, and a lifelong passion for sports. His hands-on experience with Fortune 500 companies, particularly within the ever-evolving Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) landscape, provides his clients with a distinct competitive edge. His track record of success, strong network across the sports and apparel industries, and sharp business acumen make him a trusted advisor and leader in the NIL and sports business space.
Faith and family are the foundation of Ryan’s life and values. He enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Shaila, and their daughter, McKenna, whether they’re exploring new places, spending time outdoors, or just enjoying a quiet night at home.
Erik Varner
NIL AGENT
J.D., Charlotte School of Law
M.B.A., Liberty University
Erik received his undergraduate degree from Eastern Mennonite University. After graduation, Erik got his first introduction into sports through auto racing where he managed drivers and teams through the sponsorship process. Erik went on to receive his law degree and maintained focused on athletic talent, promotion, and NIL opportunities.
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Erik brings valuable insight that comes from two decades of sales and marketing experience. Blessed to be working with an incredible group of people, it is Erik’s mission to provide partners with unmatched attention and care.
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On a personal level, Erik was born and raised in the state of Virginia. Currently residing in North Carolina, Erik is married and has four children. In his free time, Erik is a sports enthusiast who enjoys watching and playing sports. Erik also likes the outdoors and will take every opportunity to go outside, if possible.
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