Related case:
ST 2013_01 DFSNZ vs Jared Neho
April 16, 2013
Drug Free Sport New Zealand (DFSNZ) has reported an anti-doping rule violation against the 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 smoking cannabis and that he knew it was a prohibited substance in competition. His gave evidence that he knew his obligations in relation to anti-doping and that he gave up smoking Cannabis prior to the rugby league competition commencing. He withdrew from the team for family and work commitments. After he withdrew from the team he occasionally smoked Cannabis again. However, due to injuries and unavailability of other players, he filled in. His position was that when he smoked the Cannabis he had no intention of enhancing his sports performance.
The Tribunal accepted he did not intend to enhance his sports performance. There was an aggravating factor that he knew he should not be taking the substance and he played knowing the risk. There was a mitigating factor of his late call up into the team.
Considering all the circumstances into account the Sports Tribunal of New Zealand decides to impose a 12 week period of ineligibility on the Respondent starting on 25 January 2013, which will prevent him from taking part in pre-season matches and activity.
