For athletes and ASP

Introduction

We know that the majority of athletes are clean and abide by the Anti-Doping Rules. We work hard to help protect your reputation and sporting achievements.

We also know that some athletes will choose to cheat – and we work hard to detect doping behavior and remove those doing so from sport.

We also know that some athletes may be more vulnerable to succumbing to the pressures of doping.

Remember, not knowing is not an excuse – and there is limited sympathy for carelessness in anti-doping.

If you’re found doping and face a ban from sport, that is only the beginning. The consequences of doping to your health, psychological and mental wellbeing – as well as the social and financial consequences – are far-reaching and damaging.

The facts – what you need to know

For Anti-Doping Rule Violations of presence or use of a prohibited substance, the basic rules are as follows:

• If you intended to cheat, whatever the substance, the period of ineligibility is four years
• Otherwise, it is two years – unless you can show you had no significant fault or negligence, in which case ineligibility may be reduced by up to a maximum of one year (that is, to a minimum ineligibility of one year)
• If the violation involved a specified substance or a contaminated product, and you can demonstrate you had no significant fault, ineligibility may range from two years to a reprimand (depending on your level of fault)
• If you can show you had no fault or negligence, the period of ineligibility may be eliminated entirely, resulting in no ban from sport

You should also be aware that multiple Anti-Doping Rule Violations, or the presence of multiple substances may increase the sanction you face beyond four years.

For some Anti-Doping Rule Violations, the penalty can be a life ban from sport.  

What that means for you

It is not simply the detection of a banned substance in a sample that can result in an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV). There are 11 ADRVs that can result in a sanction, and these are not only applicable to athletes, seven also apply to a coach or athlete support personnel.

If you believe you have inadvertently doped then you must be able to prove that fact, demonstrating that you were either not at fault or intending to cheat. That is not always easy to do.

There is also a potential for a reduced sanction if an athlete (or other person charged) admits guilt promptly following an ADRV, or provides useful and reliable information which results in ARM-NADO (or any other Anti-Doping Organization) discovering or bringing forward an ADRV by any other person. This is known as ‘substantial assistance’.

What you should do

• Make sure you stay up to date with anti-doping matters to prevent inadvertent doping and keep records of any enquiries you make about any supplements you may take.  
• Seek help when you feel under pressure or unable to cope with the demands of training and competing – there are always alternatives to doping that will not damage your health, reputation and sporting career
• Develop your resilience over your sporting career – working with your coach, wider support team, parents and other athletes
• Remember that the majority of athletes are clean – doping athletes are not the majority

Where to go for further advice

If you require support in dealing with an Anti-Doping Rule Violation, organizations such as the ARM-NADO may be able to assist you 

Anti-Doping Rule Violation

The risks and consequences in order to minimize risk, it is important that you have a good understanding of the risks you might face. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is responsible for global anti-doping rules (known as the World Anti-Doping Code) and regulations and publishes a List of prohibited substances and methods (known as the Prohibited List). Armenian NADO (ARM-NADO), as the national anti-doping organization in the Armenia, implements the ARM-NADO’s Anti-Doping Policy (that aligns to the Code), enforces the 11 Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) and helps sports to adopt anti-doping rules and implement an anti-doping program, including educating athletes to ensure they train and compete clean.

It is vital you understand that the definition of doping is greater than a positive test. There are 11 ADRVs that athletes can be sanctioned for:

1. Test positive for a prohibited substance or method. 
2. Use or attempt to use a prohibited substance or method. 
3. Evade, refuse or fail to provide a sample once selected for a test. 
4. Have three missed tests or fail to provide accurate Whereabouts information in a 12-month period. 
5. Make any attempt to tamper with the doping control process. 
6. Possess a prohibited substance or method. 
7. Traffic a prohibited substance or method. 
8. Make any attempt to administer a prohibited substance or method. 
9. Are complicit in helping someone commit an ADRV or avoid detection. 
10. Associate with anyone found guilty of an ADRV or criminal or disciplinary offence equivalent to an ADRV. 
11. Threaten or discourage a person from reporting doping activity to authorities; or retaliate against another person for doing so. 

ADRVs 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 also apply to any coaches and wider athlete support personnel your athlete may be supported by. You can find out more information on these violations on the ARM-NADO website at www.armnado.am.

Strict Liability 

The athlete is completely responsible for any prohibited substance they use, attempt to use or is found in their system, regardless of how it got there or whether they had an intention to cheat or not. They will face the sanction and the consequences regardless of the circumstances which led to this. 

CONSEQUENCES OF DOPING 

There are many risks associated with doping. From negative effects on mental and physical health, to loss of sponsorship or prize money, to permanent damage to an athlete’s image and relationships, it is important to understand and consider all consequences of doping. Below is a list of some of the common consequences of not competing clean.

Health

The use of Performance-enhancing Drugs (PEDs) may have long- and short-term impacts on the athlete’s physical and mental health. Depending on the substance, the dosage and the duration of use, some PEDs have been proven to have severe side effects and can cause irreversible damage to an athlete’s body. 

In addition to the physical aspects, scientific research has shown that there is a considerable correlation between the use of PEDs and mental health issues. Most commonly, it was found that the use of doping substances can trigger anxiety, obsessive disorders or psychosis. Some doping substances may not be detrimental to the body but exercise an impact on mental health. It was scientifically evidenced that anxiety, obsessive disorders or psychosis are direct consequences from doping.

For more information about the dangers of doping in sport, please consult the WADA’s Dangers of Doping Leaflet and  “Side effect of doping”.

Depending on the substance, the dosage and the consumption frequency, doping products may have particularly negative side effects on health. Some damages to the body are irreversible and may lead the athlete’s life to be in great danger.

Men may develop:

• Prominent breasts
• Shrunken testicles
• Infertility
• Prostate gland enlargement

Women may develop:

• A deeper voice, which may be irreversible
• An enlarged clitoris, which may be irreversible
• Increased body hair
• Baldness, which may be irreversible
• Infrequent or absent periods
• Masculinization, such as deepening of the voice and male-pattern baldness

Both men and women might experience:

• Severe acne
• Increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture
• Liver abnormalities and tumors
• Increased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol)
• Decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Heart and blood circulation problems
• Aggressive behaviors, rage or violence
• Psychiatric disorders, such as depression
• Drug dependence
• Infections or diseases such as HIV or hepatitis if you’re injecting the drugs
• Inhibited growth and development, and risk of future health problems in teenagers
• Death
• Hospitalization
• Disability or incapacity
• Endangering the lives of others
• Damage of the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke
• Joint pain
• Muscle weakness
• Fluid retention
• Diabetes
• Vision problems
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Impaired glucose regulation
• Enlarged heart (cardiomegaly)
• Dehydration
• Muscle cramps
• Dizziness
• Potassium deficiency
• Loss of coordination and balance
• Heart palpitations
• Heart rhythm abnormalities
• Tremors

Social

Being associated with doping or a doping offence will have an impact on the person’s reputation and social relations. In the public view, athletes or other persons convicted of doping are often considered cheaters and experience many forms of stigma. Doping has a significant negative impact on the person’s private life and social interactions as people may feel that they no longer want to be connected to someone who has damaged the reputation of a sport and displayed poor judgement. 

Financial

A ban resulting from an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV) will have a significant financial impact on the individual. For athletes and Athlete Support Personnel, this includes the requirement to return prize money or a financial sanction. Other negative consequences of doping include termination of contracts and sponsorship deals, loss of government funding, grants and other forms of financial support.

Sanctions

An Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV) will have an impact on an athlete’s ability to train and compete. For coaches and other Athlete Support Personnel, a ban may mean that they are no longer able to practice their profession and work with athletes. A sanction resulting from an ADRV can range from a warning to a lifetime ban from all sport. It is important to note that individuals banned in one sport will also be prohibited from playing, coaching or working with athletes in any other capacity in a different sport.

It is also against the Code to work with Athlete Support Personnel (coaches, trainers, physicians or other) who are ineligible on account of an ADRV, or those who have been criminally convicted or professionally disciplined in relation to doping.

Beyond the legal consequences, an increasing number of public authorities and governments have adopted legislations that treat doping as a criminal act. Consequently, in addition to being ineligible to coach or compete, you may face criminal charges in your country. Depending on the national legislation and the degree of the violation, charges can lead to fines, social service requirements and even incarceration. 

An athlete runs very high risks by consuming doping substances or by using prohibited methods. This may result in very severe health but also financial, legal and social consequences.

PERIOD OF INELIGIBILITY

Ineligibility means that the athlete cannot take part in any competition or the activities of an International Federation, its member national federations or their member clubs.

Similarly, the athlete cannot take part in any competitions authorized or organized by any of the other signatories of the Code or their affiliated entities.

The period of ineligibility may range from a reprimand to a life-time ban. For Anti-Doping Rule Violations of presence or use of a prohibited substance, this period is generally as follows:

• If you intended to cheat, the period is 4 years;
• Otherwise, it is 2 years – unless you can show that you had no significant fault no negligence, in which case ineligibility may be reduced to a minimum of one year;
• If the violation involves a specified substance or a contaminated product, and you can establish “No Significant Fault”, ineligibility may range from 2 years to a reprimand, depending on your level of fault.

In case there are multiple Anti-Doping Violations or aggravated circumstances, the period of ineligibility may be more than 4 years up to a maximum of a life-time ban.

WHAT RANGE OF FACTORS DOES THE PERIOD OF INELIGIBILITY DEPEND UPON?

The factors include the type of violation, the prohibited substance or method used, the nature of the athlete’s conduct and the athlete’s degree of fault.

MANDATORY PUBLIC DISCLOSURE

If you are found to have committed an anti-doping rule violation, that fact will be made public. An Anti-Doping Organization will publish the name of the athlete, the nature of the rule’s violation and the consequences within 20 days after a final ruling. If the final decision was that there was no violation, the decision may only be disclosed publicly with the consent of the athlete.

According to WADA Anti-Doping Code and related Standards and Guidelines ARM-NADO publishes all necessary information about ADRV committed:

1. Full decision
2. Sport
3. The Anti-Doping Rule violated
4. The name of the Athlete or other Person who committed ADRV
5. The Prohibited Substance or Prohibited Method involved
6. The Consequences (sanctions) imposed

It may be an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV) to work with Athlete Support Personnel who has been sanctioned by the ARM-NADO or ITA, as well as any coaches, trainers, physicians or other Athlete Support Personnel who are ineligible on account of an ADRV or who have been criminally convicted or professionally disciplined in relation to doping (see WADA’s Prohibited Association List).

For more information about the sanctions, please see ARM-NADO’s Anti-Doping Rules.

Risks of supplement use

Extreme caution is recommended regarding supplement use. Neither WADA nor ARM-NADO is involved in any supplement certification process and therefore do not certify or endorse manufacturers or their products. WADA and ARM-NADO do not control the quality or the claims of the supplements industry.

The use of dietary supplements by athletes is a serious concern because in many countries the manufacturing and labeling of supplements do not follow strict rules, which may lead to a supplement containing an undeclared substance that is prohibited under anti-doping regulations. A significant number of positive tests have been attributed to the misuse of supplements and attributing an Adverse Analytical Finding to a poorly labeled dietary supplement is not an adequate defense in a doping hearing.

Companies producing nutritional supplements are not ruled by very strict regulations. In other words, one never exactly knows the supplement’s composition.

The risks of taking supplements should be weighed against the potential benefit that may be obtained, and athletes must appreciate the negative consequences of an Anti-Doping Rule Violation as a result of taking a contaminated supplement.

Use of supplement products that have been subjected to one of the available quality assurance schemes can help to reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of an inadvertent doping infringement.

I.1. Objective 

To collect an Athlete’s blood Sample, intended for use in connection with the measurement of individual Athlete blood variables within the framework of the Athlete Biological Passport program, in a manner appropriate for such use. 

module of the Athlete Biological Passport, it is recommended to collect an additional (B) Sample for a possible subsequent analysis of Prohibited Substances and Prohibited Methods in whole blood (e.g., detection of homologous blood transfusion (HBT) and/or erythropoietin receptor agonists (ERAs))

.

I.2.4 For Out-of-Competition Testing, A and B urine Samples should be collected together with

the blood Athlete Biological Passport Sample(s) in order to permit Analytical Testing for

ERAs unless otherwise justified by a specific intelligent Testing strategy.

[Comment to I.2.4: WADA’s Sample Collection Guidelines reflect these protocols and

include practical information on the integration of Athlete Biological Passport Testing into

“traditional” Testing activities. A table has been included within WADA’s Sample Collection

Guidelines that identifies which particular timelines for delivery are appropriate when

combining particular types of analysis (i.e., blood Athlete Biological Passport and growth

hormone (GH), blood Athlete Biological Passport and HBT, etc.), and which types of

Samples may be suited for simultaneous transport.]

I.2.5 The Sample shall be refrigerated from its collection until its analysis with the exception of

when the Sample is analyzed immediately following collection. The storage procedure is

the DCO’s responsibility.

I.2.6 The storage and transport device shall be capable of maintaining blood Athlete Biological

Passport Samples at a cool temperature during storage. Whole blood Samples shall not

I.2. Requirements 

I.2.1 Planning shall consider the Athlete’s whereabouts information to ensure Sample collection

does not occur within two (2) hours of the Athlete’s training, participation in Competition

or other similar physical activity. If the Athlete has trained or competed less than two (2)

hours before the time the Athlete has been notified of their selection, the DCO or other

designated Sample Collection Personnel shall chaperone the Athlete until this two-hour

period has elapsed.

I.2.2 If the Sample was collected within two (2) hours of training or Competition, the nature,

duration and intensity of the exertion shall be recorded by the DCO to make this

information available to the APMU.

I.2.3 Although a single blood Sample is sufficient within the framework of the hematologicalbe allowed to freeze at any time. In choosing the storage and transport device, the DCO

shall take into account the time of storage, the number of Samples to be stored in the

device and the prevailing environmental conditions (hot or cold temperatures). The

storage device shall be one of the following:

1. a) Refrigerator;
2. b) Insulated cool box;
3. c) Isotherm bag; or
4. d) Any other device that possesses the capabilities mentioned above.

I.2.7 A temperature data logger shall be used to record the temperature from the collection to the analysis of the Sample except when the Sample is analyzed at the collection site without delay. The temperature data logger shall be able to: a) Record the temperature in degrees Celsius at least once per minute; 

1. b) Record time in GMT; 
2. c) Report the temperature profile over time in text format with one line per measurement following the format “YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM T”; and 
3. d) Have a unique ID of at least six characters. 

I.2.8 Following notification to the Athlete that he/she has been selected for Doping Control and following the DCO/BCO’s explanation of the Athlete’s rights and responsibilities in the Doping Control process, the DCO/BCO shall ask the Athlete to remain still, in a normal seated position, with feet on the floor for at least ten (10) minutes prior to providing a blood Sample. 

[Comment to I.2.8: The Athlete shall not stand up at any time during the ten (10) minutes prior to Sample collection. To have the Athlete seated during ten (10) minutes in a waiting room and then to call the Athlete into a blood collection room is not acceptable.]

I.2.9 The DCO/BCO shall collect and record the following additional information on an Athlete Biological Passport supplementary form, Athlete Biological Passport specific Doping Control form or other related report form to be signed by the Athlete and the DCO/BCO:

1. a) Has the Athlete been seated for at least ten (10) minutes with their feet on the floor prior to blood collection? 
2. b) Was the Sample collected immediately following at least three (3) consecutive days of an intensive endurance Competition, such as a stage race in cycling? 
3. c) Has the Athlete had a training session or Competition in the two (2) hours prior to the blood Test? 
4. d) Did the Athlete train, compete or reside at an altitude greater than 1,500 meters within the prior two (2) weeks? If so, or if in doubt, the name and location of the place where the Athlete had been and the duration of their stay shall be recorded. The estimated altitude shall be entered, if known. 

Did the Athlete use any form of altitudesimulation such as a hypoxic tent, mask, etc. during the prior two (2) weeks? If so, as much information as possible on the type of device and the manner in which it was used (e.g. frequency, duration, intensity) should be recorded. 

1. f) Did the Athlete receive any blood transfusion(s) during the prior three (3) months? Was there any blood loss due to accident, pathology or donation in the prior three (3) months? If so, the estimated volume should be recorded. 
2. g) Has the Athlete been exposed to any extreme environmental conditions during the last two (2) hours prior to blood collection, including any sessions in any artificial heat environment, such as a sauna? If so, the details should be recorded. 

I.2.10 The DCO/BCO shall start the temperature data logger and place it in the storage device. It is important to start recording the temperature before Sample collection. 

I.2.11 The storage device shall be located in Doping Control Station and shall be kept secure. 

I.2.12 The DCO/BCO instructs the Athlete to select the Sample Collection Equipment in accordance with Annex D.4.6. If the collection tube(s) are not pre-labelled, the DCO/BCO shall label them with a unique Sample code number prior to the blood being drawn and the Athlete shall check that the code numbers match. 

I.3. The Sample Collection Procedure 

I.3.1 The Sample collection procedure for the collection of blood for the purposes of the Athlete BiologicaPassport is consistent with the procedure set out in Annex D.4, including the ten (10) minute (or more) seated period, with the following additional elements: a) The BCO ensures that the collection tubes were filled appropriately; and 

1. b) After the blood flow into the tube ceases, the BCO removes the tube from the holder and homogenizes the blood in the tube manually by inverting the tube gently at least three (3) times. 

I.3.2 The Athlete and the DCO/BCO sign the Doping Control and Athlete Biological Passport supplementary form(s), when applicable. 

I.3.3 The blood Sample is sealed and deposited in the storage device containing the temperature data logger. 

I.4.1 Blood Samples shall be transported in a device that maintains the integrity of Samples over time, due to changes in external temperature. 

I.4.2 The transport procedure is the DCO’s responsibility. The transport device shall be transported by secure means using an Anti-Doping Organization authorized transport method. 

I.4. Transportation Requirements

I.4.3 The integrity of the Markers used in the haematological module of the Athlete Biological Passport is guaranteed when the Blood Stability Score (BSS) remains below eighty-five (85), where the BSS is computed as BSS = 3 * T + CAT

I.4.4 Within the framework of the BSS, the following table can be used by the DCO/BCO to estimate the maximal transport time to a Laboratory or WADA- Approved Laboratory for the Athlete Biological Passport, called the Collection to Reception Time (CRT), for a given average temperature T: with CAT being the Collection to Analysis Time (in hours), and T the average Temperature (in degrees Celsius) measured by the data logger between Sample collection and analysis. T [°C] 

I.4.5 The DCO/BCO shall as soon as possible transport the Sample to a Laboratory or WADA- Approved Laboratory for the Athlete Biological Passport. 

1. I.4.6 The Testing Authority or Sample Collection Authority, shall report without delay into ADAMS: a) The Doping Control form; as per Article 4.9.1 b) 
2. b) The Athlete Biological Passport supplementary form, and/or the additional information specific to the Athlete Biological Passport collected on a related report form; 
3. c) In the Chain of Custody, the temperature data log.

Everyone, including Athlete Support Personnel (ASP), has a duty to protect clean sport. The Anti-Doping Rules apply to you too – so don’t let one bad decision ruin a potential sporting career.

If you are a coach, doctor, physiotherapist, or parent/guardian for example, then you are part of an athlete’s support network. The athlete depends on you for experience, direction, and guidance. Working together, we can ensure that All ASP need to know the essential anti-doping practices and tools available, to help ensure athletes remain clean.

Although this can be deemed especially important for sports medics and nutritionists, who need to be confident in their practice and advice to athletes at all times, all ASP have a responsibility to also recognize that they too must abide by certain aspects of the World Anti-Doping Code.

We know anti-doping can seem complicated and daunting. ARM-NADO are here to help you with various education and information programs, which are delivered across the sporting landscape.

As coaches, you are vital in helping your athletes develop the right values, attitudes and behaviors that we would associate with being a good sportsperson.

The coach-athlete relationship is very special. Your role goes beyond developing the technical sporting skills they need to perform at their best. Developing the person is a fundamental part of being a great coach.

You most likely know your athlete(s) better than anyone else – their personality, how they cope, levels of resilience and what motivates them. It is also likely that you are able to spot potential moments of vulnerability in their life before they even recognize it themselves.

Help them navigate the highs and lows of their sporting endeavors – making sure that during the lows they always make the right choices – by keeping yourself up to date with the latest clean sport information.

Anti-Doping Rules apply to you too. So, don’t let one bad decision ruin a potential sporting career – your athletes or yours.

Here are some helpful links to some information that applies to you as an ASP or Coach. 

More details about the role and responsibilities of trainers can be found on our website under the link Anti-Doping Guide for Coaches. 

• COLLECTION OF BLOOD SAMPLES
• COLLECTION OF URINE SAMPLES
• COLLECTION, STORAGE AND TRANSPORT OF DRIED BLOOD SPOT SAMPLES
• EVENT TESTING
• MODIFICATIONS FOR ATHLETES WHO ARE MINORS
• MODIFICATIONS FOR ATHLETES WITH IMPAIRMENTS
• URINE SAMPLES – INSUFFICIENT VOLUME
• URINE SAMPLES THAT DO NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENT FOR SUITABLE SPECIFIC GRAVITY FOR ANALYSIS

Sport only works when those on the field of play compete fairly, in line with the rules, while behaving in a way that makes us proud to watch.

To help keep order, officials such as referees or umpires score competitions or performances to make sure that the spirit of competition is maintained.

In anti-doping, testing can have a deterrent effect on those who may be vulnerable to doping decisions – and, when people chose to cheat, testing can detect that.

Testing is one of the essential components protecting clean sport.

The facts – what you need to know about testing

Who can be tested and when? Athletes can be tested any time, any place. Organisations that have the authority to conduct testing are: National Anti-Doping Organisations (NADO) such as ARM-NADO, International Federations (IFs), or Major Event Organisers (MEO) such as the International Olympic Committee or International Paralympic Committee.

What types of test are there? There are currently three types of anti-doping test: urine, venous blood and dried blood spot. Once a sample is collected, it is sent to a WADA accredited laboratory to be analysed. They never know whose sample they have, as it is anonymous.

What happens in a Test? The main stages of the testing process are as follows:

• Notification of selection for a test
• Reporting for testing
• Selecting a collection vessel
• Providing the sample under supervision
• Selecting the A & B bottles
• Dividing and sealing the sample
• Testing the suitability of the sample
• Recording and certifying the information

Who does the test? Trained and authorised Doping Control Personnel (DCP) conduct testing. They always have to show identification when they notify athletes and then you will be accompanied at all times until the testing process is finished. The DCP will take you through each step of the testing process. A Blood Collection Officer (BCO) is a trained and experienced phlebotomist who carries out venous blood tests.

What that means for you

All athletes should familiarise themselves with the testing process.

ARM-NADO, working with National Federations, aims to ensure that athletes are always educated and informed prior to being tested, but sometimes that is not possible.

Remember the DCP are there to assist and can help explain the process to you, plus you can take a representative such as a parent or a coach with you.

And don’t forget, refusing a test carries a four-year ban – so get prepared now.

What you should do

1. Watch the videos on the testing process
2. Ask other athletes you know who have been tested about the process
3. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities during the testing process
4. Remember: you can take someone with you, a representative, if you are ever notified for testing

Where to go for further advice

Why don’t you check out our section on the Testing Procedure which goes into more detail on exactly what happens in a test, including what happens at international events and modifications that are made for minors and athletes with an impairment.

Athletes can be tested any time, any place.

We test to deter those vulnerable to a doping decision and to find those who chose to cheat by using banned substances.

Testing can take place in-competition at events, or out-of-competition, in training venues, or even at an athlete’s home.

Testing is intelligence-led and risk-based, and it will always be conducted with ‘no advanced notice’.

The facts – what you need to know about the testing process

Here is an outline of the Testing Process for a Providing a Sample;

• Selection: an athlete is selected for doping control.
• Notification: Doping Control Personnel (DCP) will notify you to say you have been selected for testing and will show you their identification. You will be told what samples are being collected and you will be told your rights and responsibilities. You will be asked to show your identification and then you need to sign the Doping Control Form to confirm you have been notified.
• Reporting: you will then be chaperoned (observed at all times) as you make your way to the Doping Control Station (DCS). This is where the testing will take place. You should report immediately to the DCS unless you request a delay for a permitted reason.
• Selecting Sample Collection Equipment: you should be given a choice of sample collection kits. Make sure the kit you select is sealed and has not been tampered with. This is important.
• Providing a Urine Sample: when ready, you will be asked to wash your hands or wear gloves and then to provide your sample. The DCP, who will be of the same gender as you, will directly observe you providing your sample. The DCP must have a clear view of the middle of your body, hands and forearms. The DCP will instruct you to move clothing that restricts this view. You will need to provide a minimum of 90ml of urine. This may be done on more than one occasion until you reach the required amount.
• Splitting the Sample (Urine only): Once you have 90ml or more, the DCO will ask you to split the sample between the A and B bottles, starting with the B bottle first.
• Providing a Blood Sample: For venous blood samples, the Blood Collection Officer (BCO) – a qualified phlebotomist – will collect the blood sample from you.
• Sealing the Sample: once your samples are in the A & B bottles you will be asked to seal them. Make sure you check and recheck that the tamper-evident bottle lids are securely fastened. Again, you will be given a choice of A and B bottles and you should ensure these have not been tampered with. You should also check that the code on the bottles and lids match each other as well as the stickers and box.
• Checking the Sample’s Concentration (Specific Gravity, Urine only): for the lab to be able to analyse your sample it needs to be of a specific concentration. The DCO will test your sample to make sure it is within range. Should your sample not be in range, you will be asked to provide another sample.
• Verifying the Sample: you will need to complete the Doping Control Form and sign it to complete the process. You will be asked to add any medications and/or supplements you have taken within the last seven days and if you consent to your sample being used for research purposes. Make sure you receive your copy of the Doping Control form which you should keep.

Finally, don’t forget that your samples will be sent to a WADA Accredited Lab for analysis. Your A sample will be analysed, and your B sample will be stored securely. Samples can be stored for up to 10 years.

Requesting a Delay

There may be situations where you would like to delay immediately reporting to the DCS. Athletes have the right to request a delay for the following permitted reasons. Any delay granted is a decision made by the DCP who has notified you.

For an In-Competition Test you can request a delay to:

• Participate in an medal ceremony
• Fulfil media commitments
• Compete in further competitions
• Perform a warm-down
• Obtain medical treatment
• Locate a representative and/or interpreter
• Obtain photo identification
• Any other exceptional circumstances which may be justified, and which shall be documented.

For an Out-of-Competition Test you can request a delay to:

• Locate a representative
• Complete a training session
• Receive medical treatment
• To obtain photo identification
• Any other exceptional circumstances which may be justified, and which shall be documented

Athletes’ Rights and Responsibilities

From notification for Doping Control, athletes have the right to:

• be accompanied by a representative and/or interpreter of their choice
• request a delay in reporting to the Doping Control Station for valid reasons (see above)
• ask for additional information about the sample-collection process
• request modifications.

Athletes have a responsibility to:

• always remain within direct observation of the DCP from the point of notification by the DCP until the completion of the sample collection procedure
• produce identification such as competition accreditation or a driver’s licence
• comply with sample collection procedures
• report immediately for a test, unless there are valid reasons for a delay (see above).

What that means for you

You should always undertake the test. Refusing a test can lead to a four-year ban.

It is also important that you understand your rights and responsibilities in relation to testing.

What you should do

• Familiarise yourself with the Testing Process and your rights and responsibilities
• Always undertake the test
• Consider taking a representative with you
• Download the 100% me Clean Sport App and use its medications function to record all the medications you have taken – this will help you complete the Declarations box on the Doping Control Form

Where to go for further advice

See ARM-NADO Testing Procedure Education film – Link

Read about modifications to the testing process for minors or athletes with an impairment.

Learn about Dried Blood Spot Testing.

The Whereabouts system allows ARM-NADO and other testing agencies to test athletes with no advanced notice. For those athletes it means that you must be where you say you are!

Updating it is critical for ARM-NADO  to conduct unannounced, out-of-competition testing, helping to protect clean sport.

Remember: athletes can be tested any time, any place. If you are asked to provide Whereabouts information and do not do so, you risk receiving a Whereabouts Failure and possibly a ban from sport.

The facts – what you need to know about Whereabouts

• Athletes who are in a Testing Pool must provide Whereabouts information each quarter to enable out-of-competition testing. This information must be entered and updated in the Athlete Central App or the Anti-Doping Administration Management System (ADAMS), both managed by WADA
• If you are in a Testing Pool you must provide your quarterly Whereabouts information in ADAMS by 23:59 on the 15 December (Q1), 15 March (Q2), 15 June (Q3), and 15 September (Q4).

For athletes on the National Registered Testing Pool (NRTP), you must provide the following information:

• Overnight accommodation
• 60-minute timeslot
• Regular activities, such as training, work, or school
• Competitions
• Mailing address

For athletes on the Domestic Testing Pool, you must provide all the above, except for the 60-minute timeslot.

• You must ensure that you provide clear instructions so that you can be easily located. For example, if your house/flat is in a rural area or not particularly obvious to a visitor, further guidance may be needed for the Doping Control Officer to find you. Access/buzzer codes, security numbers, hotel room numbers or side doors must be detailed in the ‘Additional Information’ section on ADAMS
• Add all your regular overnight residences to your ADAMS address book – this will allow you to make changes easily
• Whilst competing you must always include the competition title and the venue’s location on your Whereabouts profile. You must also continue to provide a 60-minute time slot (NRTP only), even on competition days
• Whilst travelling abroad you should use the travel function in ADAMS. This should be used for all travel, and it must be used when you are unable to provide a 60-minute time slot between 5am and 11pm or an overnight accommodation entry due to travel. You should also include all travel details, e.g. flight numbers and air carriers
• Last-minute, unplanned emergency changes to your Whereabouts information can be made either directly on the ADAMS website or via the Athlete Central App. If you can’t access these platforms, use the SMS service by texting +18192724278 (your phone number must be activated on your ADAMS profile for this service to work).
• If you retire from sport when you are on a Testing Pool, then you must let your National Federation and ARM-NADO know as soon as possible. If you choose to return to sport, you must give six months’ written notice to your International Federation and ARM-NADO. If you do not provide ARM-NADO with six months’ notice of your intentions to return to sport, any competitive results obtained during this period shall be disqualified.

Whereabouts Failures

If you file your Whereabouts late, forget to update any changes or are not where you say you are, you could receive a Whereabouts Failure.

Filing Failure – If an athlete on a testing pool provides inaccurate or insufficient Whereabouts information which means they’re not accessible for testing, they are subject to what is called a Filing Failure. These can also be issued if an athlete does not file the required Whereabouts information by the quarterly deadline.

Missed Test (NRTP only) – Athletes on the NRTP can be subject to a Missed Test if they are not available for testing during their 60-minute timeslot.

Three Whereabouts failures in a rolling 12-month period leads to:

NRTP = Anti-Doping Rule Violation and a potential two-year ban from sport
DTP = will have no right to participant in Major International sport event 

What that means for you

You are responsible for the accuracy of your Whereabouts, even if you delegate this task to someone else. If you are competing aboard, injured, attending a Major Games or on holiday your Whereabouts must always be up to date – no excuses.

ARM-NADO can help if you have any questions.

What you should do

• Download the WADA Athlete Central Mobile App from the App Store here or Google Play here.
• Set phone reminders for each day to check your Whereabouts information is accurate and up to date – this can be done on the app.
• Make sure you have activated the SMS text service in your ADAMS profile and saved the SMS number in your phone (+18192724278)
• Tell your family, friends, coach and support staff that you need to provide Whereabouts information so that they can help remind you when your Whereabouts change
• Print a copy of your ADAMS calendar for coaches and support staff
• Look out for the reminders from ARM-NADO Testing Department Officer towards the end of each quarter and let ARM-NADO know if you are experiencing any difficulties accessing ADAMS
• Make sure your email and phone numbers are up to date on your ADAMS profile, so reminders can be sent to you regarding submitting your Whereabouts for the next quarter

Where to go for further advice

For more information on Whereabouts, ADAMS or what being on a Testing Pool means, visit the WADA and/or ARM-NADO website. You can also contact us at armantidopingservice@armnado.am  or using 094008515 phone number you need help.

Detailed instructions regarding the Athlete Central Mobile App and the ADAMS system are available at our website  and ADAMS film LINK.

Athletes play an important role in preserving sport clean and true. Not taking their responsibilities seriously can lead to anti-doping rule violations, such as a positive test or Whereabouts failure. It is very important for athletes to remember that failing to comply with sample collection procedures can also lead to violations with such serious consequences.

Here’s what athletes and their support personnel need to know about their responsibilities during sample collection, what behaviors may be considered failures to comply, and the consequences for such violations.

Athlete Responsibilities During Sample Collection
While athletes have many rights during the sample collection process, they also have responsibilities under the International Standard for Testing and Investigations (ISTI). During sample collection, athletes are RESPONSIBLE for:

• Complying with the sample collection procedures and instructions from ALL
  sample collection personnel
• Reporting immediately to the doping control station unless there are approved
  reasons for delay
• Presenting government issued photo identification at the time of notification
• Staying in direct observation of the DCO or notifying chaperone from the time of
  notification until the sample collection session is complete
• Keeping the collection vessel in their possession and in view of the DCO at all
  times
• Having control of the sample until it is sealed in the sample collection bottles (the
  DCO may assist upon request)
• Ensuring the sample code number is correctly documented on the sample
  collection documentation
• Completing and signing all appropriate sample collection documentation
  Athletes must remember that under the World Anti-Doping Code (the Code), they may be
  required to provide a sample at any time and at any place. It is an athlete’s responsibility to be
  available for testing and comply with the relevant rules.
• Complying with the sample collection procedures and instructions from ALL
  sample collection personnel
• Reporting immediately to the doping control station unless there are approved
  reasons for delay
• Presenting government issued photo identification at the time of notification
  ∙Staying in direct observation of the DCO or notifying chaperone from the time of
  notification until the sample collection session is complete
• Keeping the collection vessel in their possession and in view of the DCO at all
  times
• Having control of the sample until it is sealed in the sample collection bottles (the
  DCO may assist upon request)
• Ensuring the sample code number is correctly documented on the sample
  collection documentation
• Completing and signing all appropriate sample collection documentation

Athletes must remember that under the World Anti-Doping Code (the Code), they may be required to provide a sample at any time and at any place. It is an athlete’s responsibility to be available for testing and comply with the relevant rules.

Failures to Comply with Sample Collection
The Code defines several violations that may result if athletes fail to uphold their responsibilities and comply with sample collection protocols. Under the Code, ARM-NADO is obligated to investigate every report of athlete non-compliance from a Doping Control Officer (DCO).
Under section 2.3 of the Code, it is an anti-doping rule violation to evade, refuse, or fail to submit to sample collection after the athlete is notified that they have been selected for testing.

1. Examples of these violations include:
   Refusing a test because it doesn’t fall within the athlete’s designated 60-minute
   window, or because it is earlier or later in the day than the athlete would prefer.
   Athletes may be tested at any time and location, even if it’s outside of their
   preferred 60-minute window.
2. Failing to provide a sample and leaving the sight of a DCO/chaperone due to
   another commitment, such as practice, work, or school. If reasonable, the DCO
   should accompany the athlete until they are available to provide a sample.
3. Evading sample collection personnel by making it hard for them to notify the
   athlete and/or keep the athlete in view.

Under section 2.5 of the Code, it is a violation to tamper or attempt to tamper with any part of the doping control process.
Examples of tampering violations, which are separate from prohibited methods, include:

1. Intentionally interfering with a DCO or doping control protocol, such as
   discarding a partial sample, refusing to complete paperwork, and/or manipulating
   the process/paperwork.
2. Providing fraudulent receipts, medical statements, or other documents to an anti-
   doping organization
3. Intimidating a potential witness who has information that’s critical to the ARM-
   NADO investigation

It is also unacceptable for athletes to verbally abuse, threaten, or otherwise mistreat a DCO. ARM-NADO will review to determine if such behavior constitutes a failure to comply ADRV.

These rules and consequences may apply to athlete support personnel (i.e., coach, parent, agent, etc.). Interfering with the doping control process and/or encouraging the athlete to evade, refuse, and fail to comply with any part of the process could put the athlete’s future in jeopardy and
result in an anti-doping rule violation for support personnel and the athlete.

Consequences for Failures to Comply
Failure to comply with the doping control process may subject athletes to a four-year suspension and other consequences, including but not limited to, loss of competitive results, access to facilities and funding, and a public announcement of the violation.

An athlete’s period of ineligibility for a failure to comply may be reduced based on the circumstances of the matter.

Options for Athletes
If an athlete has concerns during a testing session, there are a few things they can do to feel more comfortable about complying with the test:

• Ask to see the DCO’s credentials and the letter of authority for testing.
• Ask the DCO to go slowly and review the process.
• Communicate and document your concerns with the DCO and/or ARM-NADO
  using the contact information below.

To learn more about providing information about the process and location to doping testing, watch the following videos:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ng-tfA-TqUo
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JF_IaBN8OVg