Schoolboy doping at 'alarming' levels

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The number of Anti-Doping Rule Violations at schoolboy level is “alarming”.

This was the view of Khalid Galant, Chief Executive Officer of South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport, when presented the organisation’s annual report to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Sport.

Galant disclosed that six Craven Week players tested positive for doping in 2018.

The names of these players have not been made public as they are minors.

He said the number of Anti-Doping Rule Violations at schoolboy level continues to be “alarming” and expressed concern at “the high tolerance of parents and coaches to doping practices”.

This is based on the 122 tests that were done during the 2018 Craven Week Tournament – where an alarming six players tested positive, all related to anabolic steroids.

The corresponding number of positive tests in recent years was three in 2014, five in 2015, four in 2016 and three in 2017.

Earlier this year Galant wrote to school rugby tournament organisers explaining the SAIDS Clean School Sport Policy, in terms of which “anti-doping detection, deterrence and prevention strategies will be extended to include in-competition testing at selected school sports events and tournaments”.

This was being undertaken in collaboration with the SA Schools Rugby Association and was supported by the SA Rugby Union and the Department of Sports and Recreation.

Galant pointed out in the letter that anti-doping education was an integral part of the policy.

“The individual participating Schools are encouraged to schedule an anti-doping education session so that the learners, coaches and parents are aware of the drug testing process, what to expect, the dangers of doping, the risks of using dietary or sports supplements and the educational resources available to prevent falling foul of anti-doping regulations,” he said.

Source: SAIDS annual report