IRFU Plan To Tackle Concerning Issue In Schools Rugby

Irish Rugby plan to tackle doping in schools rugby.

The IRFU have realised that doping at schools rugby is now an area of concern and are planning on tackling the issue by implementing drug testing at that level. According to a Sport Ireland spokesperson, convincing the schools to comply and then testing players is high on the IRFU agenda.

The issue became a huge talking point last week with the NZRU becoming the first union to introduce measures whereby schoolboys will be tested for the first time. The decision to test the teenagers was supported by New Zealand prime minister Bill English.

“Schools rugby is not currently within Sport Ireland’s jurisdiction. Based on evidence in other countries, schools rugby could be a potential risk area,” said a Sport Ireland spokesperson.
“The testing of schools rugby remains on the agenda with the IRFU.”
“Sport Ireland would welcome any national governing body which wants to expand its testing programme to groups where there is a potential risk,” added the Sport Ireland spokesperson.
“Sport Ireland would be happy to carry out testing if jurisdiction and other practical issues were resolved.”

Brian O’Driscoll backed the plans today on Twitter.

Would you welcome drug testing a schools level in Ireland?

[Irish Times]

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