Doping
Doping: What You Need To Know
Korfball in Great Britain is subject to the anti-doping regulations of both the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and UK Sport. This has been a hot topic since two English National League players recently tested positive for banned substances and were subsequently banned from playing, coaching, refereeing, or even training korfball for two years.
Players may be selected for testing at any International event or BKA competition (e.g. Home Nations, Inter-Area). All clubs in Scotland need to ensure that their players are aware of the requirements and comply with the current regulations.
Which drugs are banned in korfball?
- Anabolic agents e.g. anabolic steroids
- Hormones and related substances
- Asthma inhalers e.g. Ventolin (salbutamol) inhalers
- Corticosteroids e.g. ‘Reliever’ asthma inhalers
- Diuretics
- Stimulants e.g. amphetamines
- Narcotics e.g. morphine
- Cannabis
- Alcohol
Any korfballer taking any of the above medications for MEDICAL reasons will require an exemption certificate. This will cover you if you are subject to drug testing and allow you to continue playing korfball with a clear conscience! Please note that antibiotics and the oral contraceptive pill are NOT banned substances and DO NOT require exemption certificates.
What is an exemption certificate?
A TUE (Therapeutic Use Exemption) certificate is a form that must be filled in and signed by your doctor to verify that you have been prescribed the drug for medical reasons. Please note that some doctors may charge you for this service. There are two types of TUE certificates:
- Abbreviated TUE: most commonly used for inhaled asthma medication and inhaled glucocorticoids
- Full TUE
My doctor prescribes me regular medication. What do I need to do?
Faye Woolerton (Edinburgh University) is the SKA anti-doping officer. You are advised to contact her by email at antidoping@scotlandkorfball.co.uk. The first step is to verify that the medication you take is on the banned substance list and if you therefore require a TUE. You will then be provided with a TUE form which you must take to your GP to sign. This should be handed back to Faye (preferably scanned and emailed). The form will then be sent to the International Korfball Association prior to the competition or event. Please leave plenty of time to organise this prior to competition.
Anything else I need to know?
TUEs once granted have a time limitation. For asthma medication this tends to be 2-3 years.
For further information please contact Faye at the above email address.
