Players in charge of what they consume

AFL Players’ Association boss Paul Marsh says the responsibility ultimately lies with individual players to check everything they consume complies with the league’s anti-doping code.

The player welfare body yesterday said it would continue to support Lachie Keeffe and Josh Thomas after the Collingwood duo returned a positive test to the banned drug clenbuterol.

But Marsh made it clear in a statement provided toThe West Australian that footballers, more so than clubs, were responsible for educating themselves on what substances were legally allowed to be taken.

“The code is extremely complicated,” Marsh said.

“There are a number of prohibited substances and it is not difficult for a player to inadvertently take something that is captured by the code.

“Therefore it is critical for players to understand the risks involved and be as diligent as possible in ensuring anything they take, eat or drink is compliant with the code.”

All 18 AFL clubs are provided with information brochures on the anti-doping code to help players understand the risks.

However, Marsh had previously conceded in the wake of Fremantle midfielder Ryan Crowley’s positive test to a banned substance that a review into player education on anti-doping was potentially needed.

Crowley, 31, has been provisionally suspended since September 25 after testing positive to a substance contained in a painkiller, not supplied by the Dockers.

“The players are getting a reasonable amount of education,” Marsh said earlier this month.

“In saying that, it can always be improved. We need to review what’s gone on here and why Ryan’s found himself in this situation and I think you’ve always got to try to get better.”

Fremantle declined to comment on player education yesterday.