Anti-Doping and Local Football
As has been reported in the media, last weekend players from two Essendon & District Football League clubs were the subject of anti-doping testing by ASADA.
The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) is a government statutory authority that is Australia’s driving force for pure performance in sport. It is the organisation with prime responsibility for implementation of the World Anti-Doping Code (the Code) in Australia.
It is possible that ASADA could test players at EFL level, and if they do attend training or match day, players notified of their requirement for a doping test must comply with the request.
ASADA works closely with Australian Customs & Border Protection Services to investigate the trafficking of prohibited drugs, medications and substances.
ASADA ‘s responsibilities for investigations extend to community football.
What this means for EFL football
Any player known to have ordered a prohibited substances, as defined in the WADA Prohibited List (available on the WADA website or via the WADA Prohibited List App), or a product containing a prohibited substance of any form through any means including online will be investigated and open to sanction by ASADA
ASADA does not endorse the use of supplements as they have a high risk of contamination from prohibited substance;
Any player ordering supplements over the internet risks being identified by Australian Customs and referred to ASADA for investigation with the likely outcome to be the application of a sanction.
Sanctions can be up to four years and prevent a person from performing any role at any sporting club including playing, coaching or being a support staff member.
Key messages to players’, coaches and support staff are:
· If players are using, purchasing or trafficking prohibited substances they are likely to be caught by ASADA.
· If requested to undertake a doping test by ASADA as a player you are required to complete this test;
· Do not purchase or use prohibited substances;
· Do not purchase supplements over the internet;
· Before you purchase or use any substances review the ASADA website or contact the ASADA hotline.
KEY RESOURCES AVAILABLE
Anti-Doping Messages For Community Football Memo
ASDA Hotline 1300 027 232 – they can advise if a substance is on the prohibited list.