USADA announced today that U.S. Paralympic Rugby athlete Joel Wilmoth, of Bessemer, Alabama, has received a two-year suspension for an anti-doping rule violation.
Wilmoth, 21, refused to take part in a USADA Out-of-Competition doping control test on April 18, 2010. An athlete’s refusal to provide a sample when notified without compelling justification constitutes an anti-doping rule violation under the USADA Protocol for Olympic and Paralympic Movement Testing and the rules of the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation (under which International Wheelchair Rugby Federation operates), both of which have adopted the World Anti-Doping Code (“Code”). Wilmoth’s two-year period of ineligibility began June 1, 2010.
In an effort to aid athletes, as well as all support team members such as parents and coaches, in understanding the rules applicable to them, USADA provides comprehensive instruction on its website on the testing process and prohibited substances, how to obtain permission to use a necessary medication, and the risks and dangers of taking supplements as well as performance-enhancing and recreational drugs. In addition, the agency manages a drug reference hotline, Drug Reference Online (www.GlobalDRO.com), conducts educational sessions with National Governing Bodies and their athletes, and proactively distributes a multitude of educational materials, such as the Prohibited List, easy-reference wallet cards, periodic newsletters, and protocol and policy reference documentation.
USADA is responsible for the testing and results management process for athletes in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement, and is equally dedicated to preserving the integrity of sport through research initiatives and educational programs.
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