UK Anti-Doping have banned Bargoed RFC player Adam Buttifant from all sport for two years after he tested positive for an anabolic steroid.
Buttifant, formerly of Newport Gwent Dragons’ development side, failed an out-of-competition test on Monday June 8 2015 after traces of dehydrochloromethyltestosterone were found in his taken urine samples.
The UKAD proceedings heard that Buttifant suffered from dyslexia, and when offered the chance to play for the senior Bargoed RFC side was told to “bulk up” from his 125kg weight.
Buttifant purchased supplement capsules from Amazon, unable to read the label but assuming that “they would not stock it if it was not reputable”. After suffering from adverse side effects, he and his mother Amanda – who was concerned for his health – researched the supplement and found one of the ingredients, Stenbolone, was on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s banned substance list. They subsequently disposed of the capsules.
The tribunal also heard evidence from Bargoed RFC head coach Stephen Barber, who claimed senior players were not given advice about drugs or banned substances, but that a short booklet on the matter was handed out. As Adam Buttifant was still playing for the junior side, Mr Barber could not be sure that Buttifant was given a booklet.
His two-year suspension has been backdated to start from June 24 2015, meaning the 19 year old will not be eligible to play again until the 2017/18 season.
Nicole Sapstead, UKAD’s Chief Executive said: “Adam Buttifant is a young rugby player who had a promising playing career ahead of him.
“By failing to do proper research or seek guidance about the supplements he was taking, he has damaged his sporting career and his reputation.
“Athletes must follow the principal of ‘Strict Liability’ which means they are solely responsible for any banned substance which is found in their system, whether or not there is an intention to cheat.
“This can be challenging for an athlete – they have to be aware of the danger to their career at all times and make sure they carry out the correct and proper research before taking any supplement or medication.”
There are 12 Welsh rugby union players, including Adam Buttifant, currently serving UK Anti-Doping drugs bans.