International Federations learn best practice for updating Anti-Doping Rules via videoconference

GAISF Members today received guidance on how to update their Anti-Doping Rules in order to align with changes to the World Anti-Doping Code via a videoconference seminar joined by over 60 people globally.

The seminar was one of several initiatives which will be organised as part of a joint partnership between GAISF and the International Testing Agency (ITA), with the support of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), to assist International Federations in their efforts to deliver independent, efficient and compliant Anti-Doping Programmes.

Although originally planned to be accessible either in person or remotely at the Maison du Sport in Lausanne, Switzerland, the current unprecedented situation with the coronavirus pandemic necessitated that innovative technology come to the forefront. Videoconferencing was the perfect solution, enabling everyone to access the seminar no matter their location.

Ahead of the seminar, Members received customised Model Rules and a user guide to help with the implementation and adoption of compliant Anti-Doping Rules. This guide provided the basis for the main presentation, during which attendees were taken through the sections of their Rules where action needs to be taken, where action is optional and, finally, where no change is needed.

The two-hour long seminar also included short presentations from representatives of WADA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), and concluded with a Q&A session to ensure that all Members had a chance to clarify any queries about the changes.

After the seminar, GAISF and SportAccord President Raffaele Chiulli said:

“These are difficult times that we are currently in the midst of, but it is important that we look ahead to the future and, in the meantime, consider alternative methods of continuing onwards with supporting GAISF Members.

“One such method is videoconferencing, and it is great that we are able to provide our Members with guidance on changes to the WADA Code and subsequently help protect clean sport.”

ITA Director General Benjamin Cohen said:

“It was great to see how well attended this seminar was considering the current circumstances, and that so many GAISF Members came ready to learn.

“This is just one of the many opportunities that the ITA and GAISF will organise to ensure that all Members receive the appropriate support, and are well equipped to continue safeguarding clean sport.”