Introduction

At London Scottish Rugby Club, we are committed to promoting a safe, healthy, and fair environment for all members. This Drugs Policy is established in accordance with the guidelines provided by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and is designed to ensure all club activities uphold the highest standards of integrity and sportsmanship.

Objective

The objective of this policy is to deter the use of banned substances, ensure players and members adhere to anti-doping regulations, and maintain the spirit of fair competition.

Scope

This policy applies to all players, coaches, volunteers, and staff involved with London Scottish Rugby Club.

RFU Guidelines

The RFU strictly prohibits the use of performance-enhancing drugs and recreational substances. As a member club, we adhere to the anti-doping rules of the RFU, which conform to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code. The key components include:

Prohibited List: A comprehensive list of banned substances and methods, updated annually by WADA.
Testing: Athletes may be subject to doping tests both in and out of competition.
Education: Providing necessary education on doping issues to all levels of players and staff.
Sanctions: Severe penalties for violations, including suspensions and lifetime bans, depending on the nature of the infringement.

Club Expectations

Zero Tolerance: London Scottish Rugby Club has a zero-tolerance policy towards the use of banned substances. All club members are expected to compete without the use of performance-enhancing drugs or recreational drugs that could impair their ability to participate safely.
Responsibility: Each club member is responsible for any substances that enter their body. Ignorance is not an acceptable excuse for a positive test result.
Reporting Concerns: Members are encouraged to report any suspected drug use or concerns confidentially to the club welfare officer or any club official. The club will investigate all reports thoroughly and discreetly.

Testing

Players may be randomly selected for drug testing at any time. The club will cooperate fully with all RFU and WADA testing protocols.
Refusal to submit to drug testing when requested can result in disciplinary action equivalent to a positive test result.

Handling Violations

Investigation: Any alleged drug use violation will trigger a confidential investigation by the club's disciplinary committee.
Support: Members found to have violated the drugs policy will receive support to address their substance use, including access to counseling and rehabilitation programs.
Disciplinary Action: Consequences for a confirmed violation can range from suspension to termination of membership, depending on the severity of the case.

Rehabilitation and Return to Play

The club supports the rehabilitation of any member who violates the drugs policy and wishes to return to sport.A structured return to play protocol will be established, ensuring the member is fit to compete and has adhered to all rehabilitation requirements.

Review and Amendment

This policy will be reviewed annually to adapt to any changes in the WADA code or RFU regulations.Amendments will be communicated to all members and will take immediate effect upon approval by the club's governing board.

London Scottish Rugby Club is dedicated to maintaining the integrity of rugby by combating drug use in the sport. By adhering to this Drugs Policy, we reinforce our commitment to fair play and the health and well-being of all our members.