The World Anti-Doping Code (WADA) is the document that harmonizes regulations regarding anti-doping in sports across all sports and all countries of the world. The Code provides a framework for anti-doping policies, rules, and regulations for sports organizations and public authorities.

As an athlete or a coach, you will be given lots of information, advice, and guidance on how to make sure you remain 100% free of prohibited substances at all times. One of the main problems athletes in other sports have found is that health supplements are to be avoided.

In-competition testing began at the 2014 World Pole Sports Championships and continues today. Out-of-competition testing may begin anytime in 2022.

Notification of selection for a doping test:

• The person notifying the athlete will show ID.
• The athlete will also have to show ID.

Reporting for testing to the Doping Control Station:

• The athlete needs to report immediately for testing unless they request a delay.
• The athlete will be chaperoned at all times.

Selecting a collection vessel:

• There will be a minimum of 3 kits to choose from.
• Unless there is a reason, for example, disability, the athlete will be the only person to handle the testing equipment.

Providing the sample under supervision:

• Athletes will be directly observed.
• The sample must be a minimum of 90 mils or additional samples may be required.

Selecting the sampling kit:

• There will be a minimum of 2 kits to choose from.

Dividing and sealing the sample:

• B bottle first, then A, B if there is any of the sample left.
• The athlete will seal the sample.

Testing the suitability of the sample:

• The sample's concentration will be tested to make sure it is suitable for analysis.

Recording and certifying the information:

• The athlete will complete the Doping Control Form (DCF) and sign to verify it is their sample.
• They will be given a copy.
• The athlete must also record anything they have taken in the last 7 days including medications and supplements.

Athletes have the right:

• To see DCP identification.
• To be accompanied by a representative.
• To a DCO of the same gender.
• To comment on the testing procedures.
• To receive a copy of the DCF.
• Confidentiality at the laboratory.
• To request a delay in reporting to DCS.

• Remain within the direct observation of the person who is chaperoning them.
• Produce photographic identification when asked (or find someone like a coach to verify who they are).
• Comply with the testing procedures.
• Report immediately for a test, unless they request a delay for a permitted reason.

Reasons, why an athlete can request a delay to the Doping Control Station, are shown below. All requests are at the discretion of the person chaperoning the athlete and the decision will be based on whether the athlete can be effectively chaperoned at all times.

• Participate in a victory ceremony.
• Fulfill media commitments.
• Compete in further competitions.
• Perform a warm-down.
• Complete a training session.*
• Obtain necessary medical treatment.*
• Locate a representative and/or interpreter.*
• Obtain photo identification.*
• Any other exceptional circumstances which may be justified, and which shall be documented.*

For out-of-competition testing, the * reasons apply only.

If an athlete has been found to have committed an ADRV then they will be notified in writing.

They will be advised as to what to do next, their rights, and the timescales in which they need to respond. At this point, the athlete will likely be suspended from their sport.

An important aspect of anti-doping is athletes' rights, and all athletes have the right to an independent hearing. The athlete will also have the opportunity to present their case or be represented by someone to do this for them. All evidence is considered by the panel which will deliberate before making a decision and confirming what sanction if any is to be applied.

The athlete then has a right of appeal and may choose to do so within the time frames allowed.

Sanctions

You have no doubt heard that athletes receive a ban from their sport for some time. This can be a few months to life depending on the severity of the rule violation and evidence put forward.

Athletes are not allowed to:

• compete in any USAF/IPSF competitions.
• train in a USAF/IPSF-approved center; for example, an affiliated club, funded gym, or funded facility.
• Receive any sports-related funding.

And previous medals, titles, and records will also be removed.

Athletes are entitled to receive anti-doping education and may be able to still receive sport-funded medical treatment.

Most athletes have a deep passion for their sport and dedicate a significant amount of time to it. Having this removed can be difficult for athletes and should be a strong deterrent.

Not only do athletes face a ban from their sport for some time, but they also face many wider consequences.