The Canadian University of Waterloo has suspended its football program for one year following an investigation by the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) which revealed out of the 62 urine samples, nine potential infractions.
Four members of the Warriors football team have admitted to using steroids. Three other players tested positive, with another refusing to be tested. The final case in question is pending an additional police investigation.
The Waterloo team members were ordered to undergo drug testing after Nathan Zettler, the Warriors former receiver, was charged with possession of anabolic steroids for the purpose of trafficking. “The university said they dealt with it in a way that will set an example,” A fourth-year wide receiver Dustin Zender disclosed to the The Canadian Press.
“Unfortunately, that example ruins some of the lives of our players here. And Because of the actions made by some – who weren’t smart – it now affects players who did the right thing.”
Some of the health risks that can occur by long-term use or excessive doses of anabolic steroids include: high blood pressure, adverse changes in cholesterol levels, acne, liver damage, and dangerous changes in the structure of the left ventricle of the heart. A 2005 review in CNS Drugs determined that “significant psychiatric symptoms including aggression and violence, mania, and less frequently psychosis and suicide have been associated with steroid abuse. Long-term steroid abusers may develop symptoms of dependence and withdrawl on discontinuation of AAS”.
Waterloo coaches Dennis McPhee and Marshall Bingeman have been placed on paid leave from football responsibilities while the university conducts a full investigation. The Warriors did not make the playoffs last year holding a 3-5 record finishing tied for sixth place in the 10-team Ontario University Athletics standings.
The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sports has reportedly split the cost of the drug testing with the University of Waterloo. It was also agreed that athletic teams at nearby universities should be tested to minimize the risk of trafficked steroids filtering into the hands of other athletes.
Recent Comments