Andrew Harris handed two-game suspension for violating CFL/CFLPA drug policy - CFL.ca

TORONTO — Winnipeg Blue Bomber running back Andrew Harris has been suspended for two games after testing positive for Metandienone, which is a banned substance under the drug policy of the Canadian Football League (CFL) and the Canadian Football League Players’ Association (CFLPA).

Players who test positive face a two-game suspension for a first doping violation, a nine-game suspension for a second violation, a one-year suspension for a third violation, and a lifetime ban for a fourth violation.

Under the policy, a suspended player cannot participate in regular season or post-season games. It is up to the Club to determine whether that player can participate in other team activities, such as training camp, practices and meetings.

All players are subjected to mandatory drug testing once testing positive, and participate in an assessment and clinical evaluation to determine if they need additional counselling.

The policy mandates a total number of random tests equal to the number of the players in the CFL. Random testing is ongoing and is conducted year-round.

The Bombers released the following statements in regards to the news on Monday:

Statement from Winnipeg Blue Bombers President and CEO, Wade Miller:

“The Canadian Football League today announced that Winnipeg Blue Bombers running back Andrew Harris has been suspended for two games, effective immediately, after testing positive for a banned substance under the policy of the CFL and Canadian Football League Players’ Association.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers fully support the CFL’s policy on performance enhancing drugs and have fully cooperated with the CFL in regard to this matter.

The Winnipeg Football Club also supports Andrew Harris through this extremely difficult and unfortunate situation. We look forward to Andrew re-joining us on the field for game days following the bye week.”

Statement from Winnipeg Blue Bombers Head Coach, Mike O’Shea:

“As someone who has coached Andrew for four seasons now, I know first hand the hard work and dedication he puts into his career as a true professional. Andrew has been tested eight times since becoming a member of the Blue Bombers, three times this season, including ten days prior to the test that came back positive. While this is an extremely unfortunate situation, I support Andrew and look forward to his return in a few weeks.”

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August 26, 2019 at 10:04PM