Schoolboy drug test objections pursued.

Schoolboy drug test objections pursued. : "But the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) says it has the right to test any children who play sport covered by an anti-doping policy at any time."

Doping starts somehwere and I believe we have to make an issue of it because it is interfering with what would be a healthy activity and outlet for all and a good career for some. To believe it does not happen to teenagers is contrary to the information about young people and drug taking. If ASADA wants to test then they have probably some good reasons. We have to do something to show people this is not the way to further themselves. As a parent I would find it difficult if my child did all the training and gave all their time to excellence if individuals could beat them because of chemical enhancement. School students can use their top sports performances to further themselves, so in this day and age we have to be sure they have done this the healthy way. Schools also claim top sports performances as a drawcard for enrolments. It does seem horrible to test school students but I think the matter has to be taken seriously because of the prevalence of doping in young sports people. I think it's not a good idea to avoid it. It's sad we have come to this but it's time to be realistic so the real athletes have a fair chance. Which school and where is not relevant. As a community we have to provide a level playing field and healthy options for our young. If schools pull out, so be it, but I should like them stand by an anti doping position in sport and it's the young ones who get he scholarships and opportunities. 16-18 year olds are independants in our society and I don't think ASADA would do this for no good reason.