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Student-Athlete Handbook - Section 1

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Student-Athlete Alcohol and Drug Education and Drug Testing Program

NOTE: The full Drug Education and Testing Program can be found at FightingIllini.com at this link

The Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (“DIA”) at the University of Illinois (“University”) is concerned with the health, safety, and welfare of the student-athletes who participate in its intercollegiate athletics programs. The University’s campus-based and non-campus-based constituents, including fellow student-athletes, faculty, administration, governing board, medical providers, student body, and the community at large entrust the University and DIA with the duty and responsibility to take reasonable measures to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of its student-athletes. The implementation of an institutional Student-Athlete Drug Education and Testing Program (“Program”) is an appropriate means to this end as well as:

This document is not to be construed as a contract between the University of Illinois and its student-athletes. However, signed consent, acknowledgement and notification forms will be considered confirmation of the student-athlete’s agreement to the terms and conditions contained in this document and shall be a legal contractual obligation of the student-athlete.

Professional counseling is an important component of this Program. Carle Hospital provides trained specialists who provide confidential, professional assistance to the DIA. Student-athletes will be required to access assessment, counseling and/or treatment services as a result of a positive test result.

Student-athletes may also access services upon physician referral, DIA referral, or self-referral. In the case of mandatory counseling in conjunction with this Program, the student-athlete will be required to sign a consent form allowing the counseling entity to communicate with the DIA as necessary regarding the student-athlete’s compliance with the parameters of this Program.

The collection of urine samples by the independent outside entity will follow specimen collection procedures. A sample will be collected for each student-athlete randomly selected for the drug testing and will be divided into Specimen A and Specimen B. Samples will be sealed and coded for confidentiality and will remain under the supervision of the independent outside entity’s designee until delivered or shipped to the accredited laboratory for testing. Samples and identification forms for each sample will remain under the supervision of the independent outside entity until final confirmed results are returned to the DIA representative and all appeals have been completed.

The following consequences will apply as a result of substance-related offenses. Positive drug tests from the NCAA drug testing program, and/or other outside athletics organizations will result in sanctions under this Program in addition to any sanctions imposed by the NCAA, conference and/or the outside athletics organization. Positive drug tests are cumulative throughout a student-athlete’s period of eligibility except as noted below.

This Program, including appendices, is effective August 21, 2023, and is subject to change or modification at any time. However, any change or modification will only be implemented upon action by the Director of Athletics and will not be applied retroactively if such change or modification would adversely affect a student-athlete’s rights under this Program.

  1. INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES
    • Promotes fair competition in intercollegiate athletics by preserving the integrity of the sports in which student-athletes compete from those who choose to seek a competitive advantage;
    • Affirms and assists in the compliance with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (“NCAA”) and Big Ten Conference rules and regulations regarding the use of banned substances;
    • Promotes a year-round drug-free environment in intercollegiate athletics programs;
    • Responds proactively to the increased use of banned substances nation-wide and the physiological and psychological damage such use can cause to student-athletes;
    • Includes educational programming to support a positive decision-making process for student-athletes;
    • Helps identify student-athletes who are using banned substances to assist them, through education and counseling, before they harm themselves or others or become physiologically or psychologically dependent;
    • Adds a further deterrent to student-athletes’ use of such substances; and
    • Protects the University’s integrity, while minimizing the potential for negative publicity.
  2. DEFINITIONS

    This program does not apply to students participating in intramural or club sports, cheerleading, dance squads, pep bands, nor marching bands.

    The NCAA conducts a mandatory, year-round drug testing program. The NCAA’s program is conducted in addition to the DIA’s Program, which is separate and distinct from the NCAA program. A positive NCAA drug test result is treated as a positive result under the DIA’s Program. Sanctions under the NCAA testing program may vary from those imposed under the University program. A suspension under the DIA’s sanctions may be served concurrently with the NCAA’s sanctions. Student-athletes are provided a copy of the NCAA Drug Testing Program and are required to sign the NCAA Drug Testing Consent Form on an annual basis.

    Any student-athlete given prescription medicine must provide full disclosure of such medicine while checking in to the testing group. Any student-athlete who abuses their prescriptions beyond their designated dose or usage may be subject to sanctions under this program.

    1. Student-Athlete is defined as:
      1. Any person currently participating in DIA’s intercollegiate athletics program; that is, anyone who appears as active on the NCAA Squad List or Daily Eligibility Report;
      2. Any person who is not currently participating in intercollegiate athletics due to temporary suspension, injury or ineligibility (due to academic, disciplinary, or other reasons) but remains on the roster;
      3. Any person who has been certified as a “permanent medical non-counter” under NCAA rules, but still receives athletically related financial aid; or
      4. Any person who has exhausted his/her seasons of competition but is still receiving athletically related financial aid.
    2. Banned Drug Classes
      1. The DIA Drug Education and Testing Program reserves the right to test for any prohibited substances including, but not limited to, the list of NCAA Banned Drug Classes. A The list of NCAA Banned Drug Classes is subject to change by the NCAA Executive Committee and student-athletes are accountable for all banned drug classes. The most current list can be found on the NCAA website at this link
      2. With respect to testing for cannabinoids, the DIA’s threshold for marijuana/THC testing could differ (i.e., be at lower levels) from that of the NCAA. In conformity with NCAA regulations, the use of anabolic agent or peptide hormone must be approved by the NCAA before a student-athlete may participate while taking these medications.
      3. Student-athletes should note that nutritional supplements are not strictly regulated and may contain substances banned by the NCAA. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not federally regulate the supplement industry, which may result in companies adding illegal substances to the supplement formulas. This can result in a positive test result. Any supplement ingredient taken, known or unknown, is at your own risk. Information regarding nutritional supplements can be found on the National Center for Drug Free Sport Resource Exchange Center (REC) website at: www.drugfreesport.com/rec.
    3. NCAA Drug Testing Program
    4. Prescription Medications
  3. EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT
    1. To prevent the use and distribution of banned substances, education is a cornerstone of this program. The DIA recognizes its responsibility to provide educational programming which will support positive decision-making processes. To this end, DIA encourages and supports realistic and up-to-date programming which educates student-athletes on the physiological and psychological dangers inherent in the use of banned substances; informs student-athletes about any local, state, and federal laws and NCAA regulations concerning the use and possession of banned substances; and reinforces alternative activities supporting a healthy and safe lifestyle.
    2. Educational efforts include:
      1. An annual presentation to each intercollegiate athletics team in order to review the purposes and implementation of this Program and the sanctions for violating it;
      2. Provision of basic training to coaches and student-athlete support staff in how to identify a substance abuse concerns and make a referral for intervention;
      3. Annual education to student-athletes, coaches and staff regarding state laws and University policies regarding banned substances, alcohol, marijuana, substance abuse, and related resources available to them;
      4. The provision on an annual basis of a copy of this Program and the list of DIA’s banned drug classes to all current student-athletes;
      5. The provision of a copy of this Program and the list of NCAA banned drug classes, or information containing electronic links to such information, to all new incoming student-athletes;
      6. Possible utilization of the Carle Medical Hospital, and/or DIA’s Life Skills classes, special workshops, lectures, or seminars deemed appropriate.
  4. COUNSELING COMPONENT
    1. Referral to Counseling and Treatment
      1. As mentioned in Section III above, coaches and staff will receive basic training in identifying a substance abuse concern and making a referral for intervention.

        If the Director of Athletics, the Drug Testing Coordinator, a Coach, or any DIA staff member who works closely with student-athletes has a reasonable suspicion a student-athlete may be using a banned substance in violation of this Program, that individual may recommend the student-athlete be referred for medical evaluation, counseling, and/or drug testing. This recommendation should be submitted in writing to the Chief Integrity Officer, who will then consult with the appropriate individuals, including the Head Team Physician to determine an appropriate course of action, if any.

        If the referral is deemed to be appropriate, the following shall apply:
      1. The student-athlete will be required to meet with the Team Physician at the soonest possible opportunity. The Team Physician will explain the concern and the counseling available to address it.
      2. The student-athlete will be required to have an evaluation with the Sports Psychologist/Counselor at the soonest possible opportunity. The appointment should be scheduled by the student-athlete within seven days of the meeting with the Team Physician.
      3. Subsequently, the student-athlete must comply with all recommended clinical care and counseling recommendations of the team physician and/or counselor(s). Such recommendations may include ongoing testing for banned substances.
      4. Any positive tests incurred by a student-athlete who was referred to counseling under this section shall be considered part of the student-athlete’s treatment and counseling program and shall not count as positive tests under Section VII of the Program.
      5. If in the reasonable assessment of the Sports Medicine staff, the student-athlete is materially noncompliant with the letter or spirit of the recommended testing or clinical care as specified in the counseling plan, the Director of Athletics shall be notified. The Director or designee may impose sanctions up to and including immediate suspension from athletic activity.
      6. A student-athlete who tests positive may be immediately withheld from practice and/or competition for health and safety reasons as determined by the team physician.
    2. Self-Referral for Counseling and Treatment
      1. Any student-athlete may refer himself/herself for voluntary evaluation and treatment for the use of banned substances.
        1. A student-athlete is not eligible for exemption from sanctions if the self-referral occurs after the first person in the testing group has been notified of an impending drug test or after having received a positive test result under this Program or under a drug testing program administered by the NCAA or any other outside athletics organization. A student-athlete will not be permitted to enter self-referral within thirty days of the start of conference or NCAA post-season competition or a bowl game.
      2. Any student-athlete who self-refers under this section will be required to meet with the Team Physician at the soonest possible opportunity.
      3. The student-athlete will then be required to have an evaluation with the Sports Psychologist/Counselor at the soonest possible opportunity. The appointment should be scheduled by the student-athlete within seven days of the meeting with the Team Physician.
      4. The DIA will work with the Sports Psychologist/Counselor to implement a treatment plan for the student-athlete, which may include confidential drug-testing. If the student-athlete tests positive for a banned substance while still in the course of a prescribed treatment program after self-referral, that positive test will not result in further sanctions under this Program, unless the student-athlete fails to comply with the treatment plan.
      5. If in the reasonable assessment of the Sports Medicine staff, the student-athlete is materially noncompliant with the letter or spirit of the recommended testing or clinical care as specified in the counseling plan, the Director of Athletics shall be notified. The Director or designee may impose sanctions up to and including immediate suspension from athletic activity.
      6. While in compliance with the treatment plan, a student-athlete will not be included in the list of student-athletes eligible drug testing by DIA. However, the student-athlete in self-referral may be selected for drug testing by the NCAA or any other outside athletics organization and will be subject to any penalties incurred under the regulations of those organizations.
      7. The Director of Athletics, Drug Testing Coordinator, Director of Compliance, Director of Sports Medicine, Head Coach, and a Team Physician may be informed of the student-athletes’ self-referral. Other DIA staff (assistant athletic trainer, assistant coach, academic counselor, etc.) may be informed at the discretion of the Director of Athletics or designee to the extent necessary for the implementation of this Program or the welfare of the student-athlete.
  5. DRUG TESTING COMPONENT
    1. While education and counseling are important components of this Program, studies have shown these components alone are not sufficient deterrents to the use of banned substances. Periodic drug testing is appropriate and necessary to detect and deter substance use, ensure the health, safety, and welfare of its student-athletes and achieve the objectives of the Program.

      Any individual with a prior positive drug test result, a prior breach of protocol, a prior failure to appear, or who was late for a prior test under this Program or a drug testing program administered by the NCAA or an outside athletics organization may be subject to unannounced drug testing during the entire time the individual is a student-athlete at the University of Illinois.

      1. General Provisions
        1. DIA will conduct drug testing in accordance with the accepted procedures identified in this document, which can be found on DIA’s website: www.fightingillini.com.
        2. Student-athletes will be required to acknowledge receipt of a copy of this Program and sign Consent to Participate in the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Substance Abuse Program Form on an annual basis.
        3. As part of this testing program, a student-athlete will be asked to submit a urine sample which will be observed by the collection entity’s representative of the same gender. Testing of urine samples will be done by an accredited laboratory.
        4. Testing may be conducted on any student-athlete as defined in Section II.A.
        5. Testing may be conducted for any substance as defined in Section II.B.
        6. A positive test result from the NCAA and/or Big Ten Drug Testing Program or a similar program of an outside athletics organization will be treated as a positive test result under this Program and may result in sanctions under this Program in addition to any sanctions imposed by the NCAA and/or the outside organization.
        7. An assessment drug test will be conducted as part of each student-athlete’s initial physical examination or within a reasonable time after a student-athlete’s initial enrollment at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Such test is for assessment purposes only and will not be subject to sanctions except as described in Section VII below.
        8. Continued testing will be conducted on a reasonable basis throughout the calendar year and may occur at any time of any day, announced or unannounced.
        9. Refusal to provide a sample, failure to appear for a test as scheduled, appearing late for a test, attempting to manipulate the specimen, or any attempt to circumvent the specimen collection and testing process will be considered a positive test result barring extenuating circumstances.
        10. Any student-athlete with a prior positive test result, a prior breach of protocol, a prior failure to appear or who was late for a prior test, whether as a result of institutional or NCAA drug testing or a drug test administered by an outside athletics organization, may be subject to unannounced drug testing during the entire time the individual is a student-athlete at the University of Illinois.
        11. Any student-athlete with a positive test result may be subject to additional drug testing whenever DIA conducts random drug testing during the entire time the individual is a student athlete at the University of Illinois.
      2. Notification Process
        1. The Drug Testing Coordinator, the Chief Integrity Officer, the student-athlete’s Head Coach, or their designees will contact the student-athlete who is to be tested.
        2. Contact is considered to be made when Drug Testing Coordinator, the Chief Integrity Officer, the student-athlete’s Head Coach, or their designees notify the student-athlete by either (1) speaking directly with the student-athlete in person or via phone, or (2) receiving a written response via text message or email from the student-athlete, or (3) receiving a text message and/or email response from the student-athlete via Teamworks or other communication platforms. Leaving a message/voicemail and/or sending a text message/email for a student-athlete does NOT constitute contact.
        3. A student-athlete who does not respond to two or more notification attempts may be immediately tested at any subsequent time contact is established.
        4. At the time of notification, student-athletes will be informed of the date, time, and place of the testing.
      3. Showing Up Late, Refusal to Provide a Sample, Providing a Dilute Sample, or Failure to Appear
        1. If a student-athlete is late to testing (once notification/contact has occurred), the Drug Testing Coordinator or designee will attempt to reach the student-athlete via phone, text, email, etc. to notify him/her that he/she is late for drug testing.
        2. The student-athlete will be considered a “No Show” if he/she does not report within 30 minutes following the end of the testing session.
        3. A student-athlete will be considered a “No Show” if he/she refuses to provide a sample.
        4. A “No Show” barring extenuating circumstances will be considered a positive test result and will be subject to the sanctions associated with a positive test result.
        5. The student-athlete is expected to provide an adequate specimen (i.e., concentrated, alkaline, and at or above the minimum volume requirement). Providing three (3) or more inadequate or dilute samples will be considered reasonable suspicion and the institution reserves the right to test the student-athlete at any time without notice and without random selection. The institution reserves the right to consider three (3) or more inadequate or dilute samples as a positive test result and will be subject to sanctions associated with a positive test result.
        6. The use of substances and methods which alter the integrity or validity of urine samples provided during drug testing are prohibited. Manipulation refers to the use of any product, including excessive water consumption, used for the purpose of providing a dilute urine sample or substitution of a urine sample. Adulteration refers to the use or attempted use of any chemical or product (including water) added directly to the urine sample for the purpose of interfering with the testing procedures used to identify the presence of drugs. Any urine sample tested for the presence of banned substances may also be tested for the presence of substances used to alter the integrity or validity of urine samples. A positive finding for these substances or other methods of tampering will be considered a positive test. Any attempt to tamper with a urine sample during the collection process will be treated as a positive test.
        7. Once the student-athlete has been selected for testing, an adequate specimen must be provided before participating in the next designated team activity.
      4. Drug Testing Based on Reasonable Suspicion
        1. If the Director of Athletics, the Drug Testing Coordinator, a Head Coach, or any DIA staff member who works closely with student-athletes (i.e., athletic trainer, strength/conditioning coach, academic coordinator, assistant coach, compliance director) has a reasonable suspicion a student-athlete may be using a banned substance in violation of this Program, that individual may recommend the student-athlete be referred for medical evaluation, counseling, and/or drug testing. This recommendation should be submitted in writing to the Drug Testing Coordinator, who will then consult with the appropriate individuals to determine a course of action, if any. See Section IV-A of the Program.
        2. A determination of “reasonable suspicion” may be based on behavior, reliable information, conduct or performance by the student-athlete which leads a DIA staff member to reasonably conclude there is the likelihood the student-athlete is taking or is under the influence of banned substances.
        3. Presenting three (3) or more inadequate or dilute samples (i.e., sample has a concentration level lower than required by collection protocol) during a single institutional or NCAA drug test is grounds for reasonable suspicion.
        4. The test under this section will be conducted only after consultation among the Director of Athletics or their designee, the Drug Testing Coordinator, the Team Physician and the individual asserting reasonable suspicion. If it is determined any behavior, conduct, or performance of the student-athlete is such that testing for a cause is required to protect the health or safety of the student-athlete, the health or safety of others, or the integrity of the sport, then the “reasonable suspicion” standard has been met. In this case, the student-athlete may be subject to unannounced drug testing.
      5. Drug Testing Based on a Past Positive Result
      6. Initial Assessment Test
        1. All incoming student-athletes may be subject to a drug test as part of their initial physical examination to determine fitness to participate in varsity athletics at the University of Illinois. In cases when this drug testing is not practical, the incoming student-athlete will be tested at the earliest appropriate time. This initial test is for assessment purposes only and a positive test will not be subject to disciplinary sanctions under this policy except as described in Section VII below.
      7. Team Assessment Testing
        1. In order to support student-athletes, athletic teams, and program culture, the DIA will conduct an occasional team-wide educational drug assessment upon request.
        2. The assessment, which will be administered by a contracted third-party testing entity, will be conducted on all team members with no notice.
        3. The assessment is only for use of THC (marijuana) with results only to be used for educational purposes. There will be no sanctions (e.g., loss of competitive opportunities) due to positive tests, nor will a test lead to sanctions under the Policy.
        4. Positive test results will be shared with the Chief Integrity Officer, head coach, the Head Team Physician, Director of Sports Medicine, the Director of Athletics and the respective student-athlete. The student-athlete will then meet with the CIO to receive instructions on required educational programming and will sign a release of information allowing communication between the counselor and needed DIA officials.
        5. The assessment may be conducted only one time per academic year. Assessments conducted during the summer will count toward the academic year that immediately follows.
        6. To request an assessment, the head coach or an appropriate administrator must submit a written request to the Chief Integrity Officer, who will review the request with the Director of Athletics, and the Head Team Physician. Approval of the assessment will be communicated by the Chief Integrity Officer to the respective head coach and the drug testing coordinator, who will facilitate the testing.
        7. A student-athlete who tests positive for marijuana/THC in the assessment test shall be required to meet with a substance abuse counselor for an assessment. Subsequently, the student-athlete must comply with all recommended clinical care and counseling recommendations of the team physician and/or counselor(s). Such recommendations may include ongoing testing for banned substances.
        8. If in the reasonable assessment of the Sports Medicine staff, the student-athlete is materially noncompliant with the letter or spirit of the recommended testing or clinical care as specified in the counseling plan, the Director of Athletics shall be notified. The Director or designee may impose sanctions up to and including suspension from athletic activity.
        9. A student-athlete who tests positive may be immediately withheld from practice and/or competition for health and safety reasons as determined by the team physician.
  6. TESTING PROCEDURES, NOTIFICATIONS OF TEST RESULTS, AND TESTING RECORDS
    1. The independent outside entity will contact the Director of Athletics and/or the Drug Testing Coordinator and/or the designee as soon as possible following testing with results of all tests.
    2. The Drug Testing Coordinator and/or the Director of Sports Medicine and/or the Head Coach will notify the student-athlete of the positive test result. The Director of Athletics or designee may also inform the parents and/or guardians of any student-athlete who has a positive test result.
    3. Each positive test result will be reviewed by a Team Physician or other designated physician who will determine if there is a legitimate medical reason for the result. Exceptions for the banned drug classes of stimulants, anabolic agents, diuretics, peptide hormones, beta blockers, and anti-estrogens may be made by the Team Physician, or other designated physician by DIA, for those student-athletes with a documented medical history demonstrating the need for regular use of such a drug. However, in conformity with NCAA regulations, the use of stimulants, anabolic agent or peptide hormones must be approved by a Team Physician before the student-athlete may participate while taking these medications.
    4. Within twenty-four (24) hours following notification of the positive test result, the student-athlete may request the accredited laboratory be instructed to perform testing on Specimen B. The student-athlete, at his/her own expense, may choose to be present at the laboratory for the opening of Specimen B or may request a surrogate attend the opening of the specimen on the student-athlete’s behalf. Specimen B results will be final. If Specimen B results are negative, the drug test will be considered negative. DIA reserves the right to request testing of Specimen B.
    5. Records of the test results are considered part of the student-athlete’s educational record and are confidential to the degree permitted by law. The records will be maintained by the Chief Integrity Officer and released only under the circumstances allowed by this Program, or otherwise required by a valid subpoena or other applicable law, or as stated on the consent form.
  7. CONSEQUENCES FOR POSITIVE TEST RESULT AND OTHER SUBSTANCE-RELATED OFFENSES
    1. Alcohol and Non-Drug Testing Offenses
      1. If a student-athlete is in violation of state or federal laws or University policies related to drugs, substance abuse or alcohol, the student-athlete shall be required to meet with the team physician and a psychologist or counselor for an assessment. Subsequently, the student-athlete must comply with all recommended clinical care and counseling recommendations of the team physician and/or counselor(s). Such recommendations may include ongoing testing for banned substances.
      2. If in the reasonable assessment of the Sports Medicine staff, the student-athlete is materially noncompliant with the letter or spirit of the recommended testing or clinical care as specified in the counseling plan, the Director of Athletics shall be notified. The Director or designee may impose sanctions up to and including immediate suspension from athletic activity.
      3. Offenses or violations related to state or federal laws or University policies shall also be addressed separately and cumulatively by the Student-Athlete Discipline Policy and Process.
      4. Examples of violations related to drugs, substance abuse or alcohol include, but are not limited to the following:
        • Driving while intoxicated and similar offenses
        • Possession and/or sale of illegal drugs or other controlled substances, including violation of University policies regarding possession or use of marijuana.
        • Public intoxication
        • Consumption of alcohol by a student-athlete during a prospect’s recruiting visit in violation of DIA policy
    2. Positive Test in Initial Pre-Participation Assessment
      1. A student-athlete who tests positive for any banned substance in an initial assessment test conducted as part of the pre-participation physical exam or at the first reasonable opportunity after enrollment shall be required to meet with a substance abuse counselor for an assessment. Subsequently, the student-athlete must comply with all recommended clinical care and counseling recommendations of the team physician and/or counselor(s). Such recommendations may include ongoing testing for banned substances.
      2. If substance levels are not reduced to zero after sixty days, subsequent positive tests may be sanctioned accordingly under the Program.
      3. If in the reasonable assessment of the Sports Medicine staff, the student-athlete is materially noncompliant with the letter or spirit of the recommended testing or clinical care as specified in the counseling plan, the Director of Athletics shall be notified. The Director or designee may impose sanctions up to and including immediate suspension from athletic activity.
      4. A student-athlete who tests positive may be immediately withheld from practice and/or competition for health and safety reasons as determined by the team physician.
    3. Positive Test in Team Assessment Requested by Coach or Administrator
      1. A student-athlete who tests positive for any banned substance in a team assessment test conducted at the request of a coach or administrator shall be required to meet with a substance abuse counselor for an assessment. Subsequently, the student-athlete must comply with all recommended clinical care and counseling recommendations of the team physician and/or counselor(s). Such recommendations may include ongoing testing for banned substances.
      2. If substance levels are not reduced to zero after sixty days, subsequent positive tests may be sanctioned accordingly under the Program.
      3. If in the reasonable assessment of the Sports Medicine staff, the student-athlete is materially noncompliant with the letter or spirit of the recommended testing or clinical care as specified in the counseling plan, the Director of Athletics shall be notified. The Director or designee may impose sanctions up to and including immediate suspension from athletic activity.
      4. A student-athlete who tests positive may be immediately withheld from practice and/or competition for health and safety reasons as determined by the team physician.
    4. Student-Athlete Testing Positive for Marijuana/THC in Reasonable Suspicion Test
      1. A student-athlete who tests positive for marijuana/THC in the administration of the Program shall be required to meet with a substance abuse counselor for an assessment. Subsequently, the student-athlete must comply with all recommended clinical care and counseling recommendations of the team physician and/or counselor(s). Such recommendations may include ongoing testing for banned substances.
      2. If in the reasonable assessment of the Sports Medicine staff, the student-athlete is materially noncompliant with the letter or spirit of the recommended testing or clinical care as specified in the counseling plan, the Director of Athletics shall be notified. The Director or Designee may impose sanctions up to and including immediate suspension from athletic activity.
      3. A student-athlete who tests positive for marijuana may be immediately withheld from practice and/or competition for health and safety reasons as determined by the team physician.
      4. When a sport program has clearly communicated and published team rules that provide for more stringent sanctions than those described in this policy, a head coach may impose additional sanctions at his or her discretion.
    5. Sanctions for Student-Athlete Testing Positive for Synthetic Cannabinoids, Benzodiazepines (e.g. valium), Barbiturates (e.g. phenobarbital), Opioids (e.g. hydrocodone, morphine oxycodone etc., except for heroin).
      1. First Positive Test Result
        1. The student-athlete can be subjected to additional drug testing during the entire time the individual is a student athlete at the University of Illinois.
        2. The student-athlete will be required to meet with the Director of Athletics and/or designee, the Team Physician, at the soonest possible opportunity. Such meetings may be held at the same time or separately but should be scheduled within seven days of receipt of notification of a positive test result.
        3. The student-athlete will be required to have an evaluation with the Sports Psychologist/ Counselor at the soonest possible opportunity. The appointment must be scheduled by the student-athlete within seven days of receipt of notification of a positive test result.
        4. Subsequently, the student-athlete must comply with all recommended clinical care and counseling recommendations of the team physician and/or counselor(s). Such recommendations may include ongoing testing for banned substances.
        5. If in the reasonable assessment of the Sports Medicine staff, the student-athlete is materially noncompliant with the letter or spirit of the recommended testing or clinical care as specified in the counseling plan, the Director of Athletics shall be notified. The Director or designee may impose sanctions up to and including immediate suspension from athletic activity.
        6. A student-athlete who tests positive may be immediately withheld from practice and/or competition for health and safety reasons as determined by the team physician.
      2. Second Positive Test Result
        1. The student-athlete is subject to provisions 1(a) through (f) above.
        2. In addition, the student-athlete will be suspended from competition for the next ten percent or three games (whichever is less) of the sport program’s season. The suspension will take effect immediately and in successive competitions following completion of confirmation of a positive test result unless the student-athlete has already departed for an away-from-home competition. The suspension will apply to regular season contests, conference championships, and post-season competition including bowl games. Scrimmages and/or exhibitions may not be included in the suspension. Loss of competition sanctions will carry over into the following year if it is not possible to complete the suspension in the current year. The suspension will apply separately to each sport in which a student-athlete participates. Suspensions cannot be served concurrently while sitting out of contests for any other reason; for example, due to injury, academic eligibility issues, completing a transfer residency requirement, serving a suspension for University disciplinary or conference or NCAA sanctions (excluding an NCAA drug testing suspension), etc. A suspension under this sanction may be served concurrently with an NCAA or Big Ten Conference drug-testing suspension.
        3. Any athletically related financial aid received by a student-athlete with no remaining eligibility may be subject to immediate cancellation in conformity with NCAA policies and procedures.
      3. Third Positive Test Result
        1. The student-athlete is subject to 1(a) through (f) above.
        2. In addition, the student-athlete will be suspended from competition for the next twenty-five percent or nine contests (whichever is less) of the sport program’s season. The suspension will take effect immediately and in successive competitions following completion of confirmation of a positive test result unless the student-athlete has departed for an away-from-home competition. The suspension will apply to regular season contests, conference championships, and post-season competition including bowl games and must be served consecutively. Scrimmages and/or exhibitions may not be included in the suspension. Loss of competition sanctions will carry over into the following year if it is not possible to complete the suspension in the current year. The suspension will apply separately to each sport in which a student-athlete participates. Suspensions cannot be served concurrently while sitting out of contests for any other reason; for example, due to injury, academic eligibility issues, completing a transfer residency requirement, serving a suspension for University disciplinary or conference or NCAA sanctions (excluding an NCAA drug testing suspension), etc. A suspension under this sanction may be served concurrently with an NCAA or Big Ten Conference drug-testing suspension.
        3. Any athletically related financial aid received by a student-athlete with no remaining eligibility may be subject to immediate cancellation in conformity with NCAA policies and procedures.
      4. Fourth Positive Test Result
        1. The student-athlete is subject to 1(a) through (f) above.
        2. In addition, the student-athlete will be suspended from competition for the next fifty percent or twenty contests (whichever is less) of the sport program’s season. The suspension will take effect immediately and in successive competitions following completion of confirmation of a positive test result unless the student-athlete has already departed for an away-from-home competition. The suspension will apply to regular season contests, conference championships, and post-season competition including bowl games and must be served consecutively. Scrimmages and/or exhibitions may not be included in the suspension. Loss of competition sanctions will carry over into the following year if it is not possible to complete the suspension in the current year. The suspension will apply separately to each sport in which a student-athlete participates. Suspensions cannot be served concurrently while sitting out of contests for any other reason; for example, due to injury, academic eligibility issues, completing a transfer residency requirement, serving a suspension for University disciplinary or conference or NCAA sanctions (excluding an NCAA drug testing suspension), etc. A suspension under this sanction may be served concurrently with an NCAA drug-testing suspension.
        3. Any athletically related financial aid received by a student-athlete with no remaining eligibility may be subject to immediate cancellation in conformity with NCAA policies and procedures.
      5. Fifth Positive Test Result
        1. The student-athlete is subject to 1(a) through (f) above.
        2. In addition, the student-athlete will be suspended from competition for a full season of competition in his or her respective sport program. The suspension will take effect immediately and in successive competitions following completion of confirmation of a positive test result unless the student-athlete has already departed for an away-from-home competition. The suspension will apply to regular season contests, conference championships, and post-season competition including bowl games and must be served consecutively. Scrimmages and/or exhibitions may not be included in the suspension. Loss of competition sanctions will carry over into the following year if it is not possible to complete the suspension in the current year. The suspension will apply separately to each sport in which a student-athlete participates. Suspensions cannot be served concurrently while sitting out of contests for any other reason; for example, due to injury, academic eligibility issues, completing a transfer residency requirement, serving a suspension for University disciplinary or conference or NCAA sanctions (excluding an NCAA drug testing suspension), etc. A suspension under this sanction may be served concurrently with an NCAA drug-testing suspension.
        3. Any athletically related financial aid received by a student-athlete with no remaining eligibility may be subject to immediate cancellation in conformity with NCAA policies and procedures.
    6. Sanctions After Positive Test for Stimulants, (Cocaine, Amphetamines etc.), Heroin, or Any Other Stimulant Type Drug Not Prescribed by a Licensed Practicing Medical Provider (e.g. Adderall, Ritalin, etc.), Anabolic Steroids or Other Performance Enhancing Drugs.
      1. First Positive Test Result
        1. The student-athlete can be subjected to additional drug testing whenever DIA conducts random drug testing during the entire time the individual is a student-athlete at the University of Illinois.
        2. The student-athlete will be required to meet with the Director of Athletics and/or designee, the Team Physician, and Head Coach at the soonest possible opportunity. Such meeting will be coordinated by the Drug Testing Coordinator and should be scheduled within seven (7) days of receipt of notification of a positive test result.
        3. The student-athlete will be required to have an evaluation with the Psychologist/ Counselor at the soonest possible opportunity. The appointment must be scheduled by the student-athlete within seven (7) days following confirmation of the student-athlete’s positive test result.
        4. Subsequently, the student-athlete must comply with all recommended clinical care and counseling recommendations of the team physician and/or counselor(s). Such recommendations may include ongoing testing for banned substances.
        5. If in the reasonable assessment of the Sports Medicine staff, the student-athlete is materially noncompliant with the letter or spirit of the recommended testing or clinical care as specified in the counseling plan, the Director of Athletics shall be notified. The Director or designee may impose sanctions up to and including immediate suspension from athletic activity.
        6. The student-athlete will be suspended from competition for regular season contests in all sports for one (1) calendar year. The suspension will take effect immediately and in successive competitions following completion of confirmation of a positive test result. The suspension will apply to regular season contests, conference championships, and post-season competition including bowl games and must be served consecutively. Scrimmages and/or exhibitions with outside competition may not be included in the suspension. Loss of competition sanctions will carry over into the following year if it is not possible to complete the suspension in the current year. The suspension will apply separately to each sport in which a student-athlete participates. Suspensions cannot be served concurrently while sitting out of contests for any other reason; for example, due to injury, academic eligibility issues, completing a transfer residency requirement, serving a suspension for University disciplinary or conference or NCAA sanctions (excluding an NCAA drug testing suspension), etc. A suspension under this sanction may be served concurrently with an NCAA drug-testing suspension.
        7. Any athletically related financial aid received by a student-athlete with no remaining eligibility may be subject to immediate cancellation in conformity with NCAA policies and procedures.
        8. A student-athlete who tests positive may be immediately withheld from practice for health and safety reasons as determined by the team physician.
      2. Second Positive Test Result
        1. The student-athlete will be permanently suspended from athletic activities.
        2. Any athletically related financial aid the student-athlete is receiving will be subject to immediate cancellation in conformity with NCAA policies and procedures.
        3. The student-athlete will be encouraged to pursue further evaluation and follow-up care with the Carle Hospital Psychologist/Counselor.
  8. APPEALS
    1. A student-athlete who tests positive under the terms of this Program will be entitled, upon request, to an appeal. A request for an appeal must be made in writing to the Director of Athletics within twenty-four (24) hours of notification of confirmation of a positive test result and must include the rationale for the appeal. If the 24 hours would end on a weekend, the request must be made by noon (12pm) on DIA’s next business day. A student-athlete who is appealing a Second, Third, or Fourth Positive Test Result is not eligible for competition during the appeal process.
      1. Appeals Committee
      2. Appeals will be heard by a three-person Appeals Committee comprised of the Director of Compliance or designee, the University’s NCAA Faculty Athletics Representative and a Team Physician or a medical professional recommended by a Team Physician. The committee will make a recommendation on each appeal to the Director of Athletics. The decision by the Director of Athletics regarding the sanctions to be imposed will be final.
      3. Appeals Proceedings
        1. The Appeals Committee will have three (3) business days after receipt of the written request to determine the date, time, and location of the appeal. Every reasonable effort will be made to schedule the appeal in as timely a manner as possible. Either the student-athlete or the Committee may request an extension from the Director of Athletics upon a showing of reasonable cause.
        2. The student-athlete may have an advocate or other representative present if the student-athlete desires. However, the student-athlete must present his/her own case.
        3. The proceedings will be confidential.
  9. EFFECTIVE DATE