The AFL will order a crackdown on the self-reporting loophole for illicit drug use to restrict players to just one ‘report’ per career under the proposed revised drugs code – however, the three ‘strikes’ format will remain intact.
Previously, players have been able to avoid a drug ‘strike’ by contacting the AFL medical officers and self-reporting drug use, but players have been abusing the system by repeatedly self-reporting, which has led to the AFL’s decision to review the process and close the loophole.
In the new format, players shall be given only one opportunity to self-report drug use in their playing career, with clubs also having the opportunity to request additional target testing of players under the current confidential terms. It is also suggested to inform club officials of two ‘strike’ offenders, but that regulation is facing stiff opposition from AFL Players Association (AFLPA), indicating it will oppose any move to allow officials, besides the club doctor, into the confidentiality loop.
Travis Tuck is the only AFL footballer who has ever recorded three ‘strikes’ under the AFL’s current drug policy.
