by David P. Greisman
Boxers, mixed martial artists and other athletes with questions about dietary supplements and potentially dangerous or banned substances will be able to get answers from experts, done confidentially and online.
The Voluntary Anti-Doping Association, or VADA, announced earlier this week that it has partnered with The National Center for Drug Free Sport’s Resource Exchange Center.
“VADA’s most important mission is education of the athletes, trainers, commissions, the public and the media,” Goodman told BoxingScene.com via email. “Working with the REC will further enable interested parties — especially the fighters — to have confidential access to experts in the anti-doping field.
“It is another way fighters can take more control over their career,” she said.
The online resource also includes tools and other materials, and is presently subscribed to by such athletic leagues and organizations as the NCAA, Major League Baseball, the NFL, the PGA and LPGA, the USATF and state high school associations, according to the Resource Exchange Center’s website.
The resource has been opened up first to VADA fighters and their camps, according to Goodman. Others seeking information for the moment can contact VADA directly, she said.
“Anti-doping is a constantly changing field. All too often individuals who work with athletes are inexperienced and misinformed regarding supplements, medications and methods,” Goodman said. “Beyond the risk of positive drug screens/doping violations, safety risks are increased. Access to a highly respected and recognized organization like DFS will enhance VADA’s goals in promoting clean sport.”
David P. Greisman is a member of the Boxing Writers Association of America. Follow David on Twitter @fightingwords2 or send questions/comments via email at fightingwords1@gmail.com
