Knights look at year-round drugs testing
The CEO of NRL side Newcastle Knights has indicated that the club may look at year-round drug testing of its players.
It comes in light of the recent drugs charges being brought against Knights player Danny Wicks, and Steve Burraston is investigating the legalities of changing the club’s testing policy.
“We are considering all legal and logistical challenges involved with such a rigorous testing regime.”
“We see this as a great tool for the club moving forward for target testing as it allows us the ability to act on credible evidence presented to the club with regards to suspicious activity involving illegal substances.”
“First though, we have to ensure we are not in breach of any industrial relations laws or contract terms and conditions. We have to make sure it is worded correctly and that players are given time to take advice on the matter.”
“Once we receive the appropriate clearance we will then take the policy to the players group for discussion and implementation.”
“I expect this to be an in-house procedure. We have no intention to make a public spectacle of this matter. We intend to respect the privacy and rights of our players throughout this process.”
“We reiterate that we already run one of the most stringent testing regimes in Australian sport.”
With regards to the ongoing police investigation in the wake of the Danny Wicks arrest, Mr Burraston said;
“We have faith in our legal system and are confident police will present any necessary evidence to us if they suspect any players of being involved in illegal activities.”
“Some very serious allegations have been reported in the last week. There is an ongoing police investigation and we have no intention of hindering their investigation in any way.”
“We don’t act on rumours and innuendo and until such times that we are presented with solid evidence we won’t be taking matters into our own hands. It is a matter for police and they are much better placed to deal with such matters.”
“We remain confident we have the policies and procedures in place to deal with any situation presented to us.”