Related cases:
SDT 2006_19 New Zealand Rugby League vs Vince Whare
November 28, 2006
ST 2009_11 DFSNZ vs Vince Whare
March 1, 2010
The New Zealand Sports Drug Agency (NZSD) and the New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) have reported an anti-doping rule violation against the Respondent after he tested positive for the prohibited substance Cannabis.
The NZRL notified the Respondent and ordered a provisional suspension. The Respondent filed a statement in his defence and was heard for the Tribunal.
The Tribunal notes that Respondent’s use of cannabis was not intended to enhance sport performance, and was prior to his selection for the New Zealand Maori team. Cannabis was used for recreational purposes, unrelated to competition and not used by him during the tournament at which he was tested, but his prior use accounted for it.
The Sports Disputes Tribunal of New Zealand decides to impose a reprimand on the Respond. In addition he is directed to pay a fine of 250 NZD to the Tribunal and costs of 250 NZD to NZRL.
