NCAA Committee recommends changes to NCAA drug policies...

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The NCAA Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports recommended extensive changes to the NCAA’s drug-testing policies when it convened recently in Indianapolis, and it could lead to less stringent penalties for student-athletes who use recreational drugs like alcohol, marijuana and opiates.

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Given that testing over nearly 30 years hasn’t served as an adequate deterrent – plus the fact that student-athletes who are penalized for recreational drug use by losing eligibility are more likely to drop out of school – the committee suggested the NCAA explore whether a different approach for recreational drugs is warranted. ... Use of recreational drugs should absolutely be discouraged, the committee members said; but because they do not provide a competitive advantage, alternative approaches to testing should be developed."

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One area where the NCAA intends to get tougher is with performance-enhancing substances. One obvious reason for that is to make sure competitive balance is maintained, but it is also to help ensure the health and well-being of the athletes.

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