Drug Policy in Sport Katie Sheeler SPMG 337 – Governance of Sport. Professor Campbell 14 November 2024 I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The problem or issue with drug policies in sports revolves around performance-enhancing drugs or other banned substances. These substances can give athletes unfair advantages, undermine the integrity of sports, and cause significant health risks. Important organizations to support drug policies are the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Drug policies in sports help address the concerns of performance-enhancing drug use and banned substances. These policies have evolved over the years as this concern increases. In the article, “Historical Timeline – Drug Use in Sports,” …show more content…
These policies are enforced to address health concerns and prevent drug abuse. The significance of drug policies in sports is to ensure a level playing field by preventing athletes from using drugs that give them an unfair advantage, which maintains the integrity of sports. Drug policies protect the health of athletes by discouraging them from using drugs, which can have harmful physical and psychological effects. Another significance is maintaining the trust of fans because drug policies help fans trust that the competitions they are watching are fair. There are legal and ethical standards for sport organizations, and drug policies align with these standards. Also, athletes serve as role models for younger fans, and drug policies promote positive behavior. Drug policies are essential for maintaining the integrity, safety, and reputation of …show more content…
Creating leagues or competitions exclusively for athletes who are free of PEDs. The goal of this policy is to ensure fair play and provide a level playing field for the athletes that choose to compete without using banned substances. Athletes in these leagues must do frequent drug testing, and only the athletes that pass the tests are allowed to compete. This alternative policy response helps maintain the integrity of sports and protects the health of athletes because it promotes a drug-free environment. It also enhances the credibility of sporting events by ensuring all participants compete on equal terms. The trust of fans, sponsors, and the public increases when they know the athletes are competing without the aid of PEDs. When athletes know they are dedicated to a league specifically for clean athletes, it gives them the incentive to stay clean. It would be used if athletes are still using PEDs, and clean athletes are discouraged and upset that they still have to compete against non-clean athletes. The alternative policy response of having separate leagues for clean athletes aligns with the goals of maintaining fair play, protecting athlete health, and enhancing the credibility of sporting