Irish Squash adheres to the Sport Ireland (SI) Anti-Doping policy that in turn follows the parameters laid down by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). This is in conformity with the anti-doping rules of European and World Squash federations. Doping refers to any violation of the rules set out in the World Anti-Doping Code. In summary, it means taking a substance or using a method that can or may enhance an athlete’s performance. It also refers to the possession of or aiding/supporting the use of substances or methods by coaches or other support personnel.
Athletes who need to take medication for medical conditions can do so even when competing. However, some substances need approval by the relevant body to avoid a positive doping test. This involves getting a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE).
Irish Team and squad members from U19 upwards are liable for drug testing at any time, in or out of competition, including training sessions.
In European or World Squash events, any player of any age can be tested.
Failure to adhere to the anti-doping guidelines can lead to a positive drug test and in turn lead to severe sanctions from the Governing Body of the sport. This can vary from a warning to a ban from competition. The player is ultimately responsible for whatever is found in an anti-doping test.
Athletes are responsible for anything they ingest, no one else can be blamed. They should always check the Prohibited list or ask advice if they plan to take any medications apart from acetaminophen or ibuprofen, or an antibiotic and should avoid taking supplements. The latter are not regulated and their content list may not be all-inclusive so may contain prohibited substances. Supplements can be contaminated during processing, so one doesn’t know whether there are prohibited substances or not, so not worth the risk of taking them. A,B,C,D,E vitamins are fine – though shouldn’t be used in excess as some have potential serious longer term side effects.
Squash is a clean sport with relatively few anti- doping violations, but some do occur. Everyone has a role in keeping squash a clean sport. It is a sport with a lot of good health benefits and can be played for life. Drugs are not needed to play elite level squash and be highly ranked in the world.
Players, coaches and support personnel should familiarise themselves with the anti-doping rules and regulations. If in doubt, contact the anti-doping officer of the Body governing the event a player is involved in, be it a National, European, or World squash event. Dr Aidan O’Colmain is the anti-doping officer for Irish Squash. He can be contacted by email at aocolmain@gmail.com
Check out the following:
They also have a downloadable medication checker App – which allow users to access the Eirpharm Drugs in Sport Database via their iPhone.
They also have updated the 2024 List of Prohibited Substances and Method and the 2024 Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes
If you need to apply for a TUE at National Competition level, apply to the SI via their website, anti-doping section, TUE application
You need to follow the link from Education and Training to Anti-Doping
To check medication, go HERE and enter medication details