NFL Toughens Steroid Policy

The NFL goes a step further in strengthening its steroid policy by adding amphetamine to its list of band materials beginning in 2007.

Amphetamines are considered to be drugs, but they are now collected on steroids and carry heavy penalties if violated. This season is the test year and if an athlete fails the amphetamine test - he or she will be issued a warning and enrolled in a drug treatment program.

In 2007, drugs will be tested more often and the heavier penalties for violations will be enforced. The first positive test will result in a four-game suspension, the same penalty now being given for positive steroid testing. Major League Baseball has also started testing amphetamine this season as part of its steroid policy.

In addition to amphetamine changes, the penalties for the second positive test for performance enhancing drugs increased from six to eight games. The third positive test still carries a one-year suspension.

All of this has come in recent years about congressional hearings on sports medicine. It's good for the NFL and for baseball, too. The sticking point comes in the quest to compete with HGH - Human Growth Hormone, and all the new steroids that go down the pike.

There are no effective tests for HGH right now and new steroids are being created almost daily. Some players will always look for shortcuts for competitive advantage and as they do so, drugs will be given to help them achieve their goals.

The NFL and other sports are doing a good job with their drug policies, but they must partner with congress and law enforcement to launch a culture that supplies ingredients in the first place. Only then the problem of drugs in sports will be fought on the playing field.

It is still a difficult battle because as long as we have the demand, there will be supply. And we have a huge demand in this culture - not just in sports but people from all walks of life. Drugs are a serious threat to millions of lives and will only be overcome by collective cooperation.

The issue of drugs is a national issue. Sport is a reflection of the culture that develops within it. Only by working together can the problem be solved.

NFL Toughens Steroid Policy


==========================