In the NRL, drug testing has reached standards comparable to those of the Olympics, with every player subject to blood tests for human growth hormone (HGH), erythropoietin (EPO), as well as illicit or performance-enhancing substances.
In a timely reminder to all players as the Christmas season approaches, testers from the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) are making unannounced visits to NRL clubs like Penrith and Newcastle to collect blood samples from players.
Earlier this year, the NRL expressed its support for ASADA’s blood testing initiative, marking this as the first concrete indication that independent testing is actively underway.
Although there’s no indication that specific players were singled out, ASADA collected blood samples from 10 Penrith players over the last fortnight during a two-day period.
Nevertheless, ASADA possesses the authority to execute targeted tests if there are suspicions that any players are consuming banned substances.
All clubs in the league are preparing for testing, even as some players express opposition to the procedure.
“I don’t know anyone in their workplace who would be eager to have a needle inserted in their arm,” noted one prominent NRL player.
This testing protocol enables examinations for a variety of performance-enhancing drugs, including HGH, EPO, and CERA (continuous erythropoietin receptor activator).
This marks the most stringent level of drug testing the NRL has ever implemented, aligning rugby league with the top sports globally.
Penrith’s highly regarded chief executive, Michael Leary, commended the NRL’s initiative to uphold a clean competition. “I find it encouraging,” noted Leary.
“I’ve been around the sport for some time, and I’ve never encountered testing this advanced. We’ve had ASADA visit us twice, and about 10 of our players have undergone testing.
“The standards have risen significantly now. This testing is virtually on par with Olympic standards.
“It sends a strong message to every player that if you plan to indulge over the Christmas break and engage in any misconduct, it could jeopardize your career.”
NRL chief executive David Gallop emphasized that the additional testing by ASADA, combined with the NRL’s own independent testing, reinforces the league’s commitment to combating drugs.
“It serves as a reminder to all players that testing can occur unexpectedly; however, I am confident that players are united in their support for rugby league upholding a vigorous stance against drugs, particularly performance-enhancing substances,” Gallop stated.
Buford Balony says: Well, what does this imply about the AFL’s 3 strikes? It’s clear which code takes the issue more seriously.
