Michael Rodgers, an athlete in the sport of track and field, who tested positive for the prohibited stimulant methylhexaneamine at the 2011 Sport e Solidarieta in Lignano Sabbiador, Italy in July, accepted a provisional suspension today and voluntarily withdrew himself from the 2011 IAAF World Championships set to take place in Daegu, Korea beginning on August 27, 2011. Mr. Rodgers, who was scheduled to compete for the U.S. in the 100m and 4x100m relay, maintains his innocence and claim that he did not intentionally ingest the prohibited substance, however, he has decided to withdraw from the World Championships out of fairness to the other athletes competing there so that they may do so without the distraction of his positive test. Mr. Rodgers’ lawyer, David Greifinger, has indicated to USADA that he will continue to investigate the cause of Mr. Rodgers’ test and will decide with his client how Mr. Rodgers will proceed.
In an effort to aid athletes, as well as all support team members such as parents and coaches, in understanding the rules applicable to them, USADA provides comprehensive instruction on its website on the testing process and prohibited substances, how to obtain permission to use a necessary medication, and the risks and dangers of taking supplements as well as performance-enhancing and recreational drugs. In addition, the agency manages a drug reference hotline, Drug Reference Online (www.GlobalDRO.com), conducts educational sessions with National Governing Bodies and their athletes, and proactively distributes a multitude of educational materials, such as the Prohibited List, easy-reference wallet cards, periodic newsletters, and protocol and policy reference documentation.
USADA is responsible for the testing and results management process for athletes in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement, and is equally dedicated to preserving the integrity of sport through research initiatives and educational programs.
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