Bulldogs defy ASADA over banned player
UPDATED: The Western Bulldogs remain adamant that they have AFL permission for former Bomber Brent Prismall to work at the club, despite his anti-doping ban.
Prismall is one of the 34 current and past Essendon players who are serving suspensions and he is continuing his job as the Bulldogs’ player welfare manager.
The `Dogs released a statement on Wednesday, saying if the AFL’s position on Prismall changes then they will comply.
Under section 22.1 of the AFL anti-doping code, no player declared ineligible may participate in any capacity in an AFL competition or activity.
ASADA also reportedly contacted the AFL in January to advise it that Prismall should be stood down, but the Bulldogs maintain he is free to work in the role.
Prismall has been the Bulldogs’ player welfare manager since 2012.
“Brent Prismall returned to his employment with the club after the club had clarified with the AFL that his duties and job description did not conflict with the arbitral award of the Court of Arbitration for Sport and the penalties contained in it,” the ‘Dogs said.
“The AFL confirmed in writing its consent to and authorisation of Brent’s return.
“The AFL also informed the club at this time that it provided such consent and authorisation on the basis of advice received from ASADA.
“If the club is informed by the AFL that its position has changed, it will of course act in conformity with the AFL’s direction.”
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Former ASADA chief executive Richard Ings said on social media that the Bulldogs were in breach of the code by letting Prismall continue in the role during his ban.
"The AFL rule is clear"
"Prismall is ineligible to take on ANY position at the club."
"ASADA should take action pic.twitter.com/YsFpha1el6"
"— Richard Ings : Renewable Energy Beneficiary (@ringsau) March 1, 2016"
The AFL and ASADA reportedly are still discussing the matter.
-AAP
