Lanista

A lanista was a Roman manager or trainer of gladiators, responsible for their recruitment, training, and overall management. This role was akin to a modern sports team owner or coach, overseeing the fighters’ preparation and often their contracts. Lanistae operated within the gladiatorial industry, sometimes owning multiple fighters and organizing matches for entertainment and profit. They played a crucial role in the gladiatorial spectacle, ensuring their fighters were prepared to perform and of interest to spectators. The term underscores the organized and commercial nature of gladiatorial combat in ancient Rome.