Drug Free Sport New Zealand (DFSNZ) has reported an anti-doping rule violation against Respondent after his sample tested positive for the prohibited substance Cannabis. After notification a provisional suspension was ordered and Respondent was heard for the Tribunal. Respondent admitted the violation and gave corroborated evidence that the cannabis was used at a party to celebrate his club team winning its competition.
The Tribunal considers that Respondent was aware that Cannabis was prohibited in sport. His statement that, at the time of his cannabis use, he did not think he would be chosen to represent his provincial team was no excuse.
The Tribunal considers that there were no mitigating circumstances.
Therefore the Sports Tribunal of New Zealand decides to impose a period of ineligibility on Respondent preventing him from participation in the rugby league and other sports up to and including 29 January 2010.
