Can someone explain to me what the point of drug-testing for non-performance enhancing substances is? I just read this article about Richard Gasquet (pro tennis) testing positive for cocaine. Same story for Phelps taking bong hits.
I really don't understand it at all. Since these substances do not enhance performance in the athletic arena, why are athletes tested for them? If it's about people of high-status being role models for the impressionable public, then I rebut with this:
a) Why are politicians not tested 2-3 times a week and prior to voting on every bill for drugs? Many are arguably brighter in the public eye than a Top 25 tennis player. At the very least, the POTUS, right?
b) You only publicize "immoral" actions like taking recreational drugs by revealing positive tests. The impressionable youth would be better off not knowing, if that's really the point and you want to be practical about the matter.
Discuss.
I really don't understand it at all. Since these substances do not enhance performance in the athletic arena, why are athletes tested for them? If it's about people of high-status being role models for the impressionable public, then I rebut with this:
a) Why are politicians not tested 2-3 times a week and prior to voting on every bill for drugs? Many are arguably brighter in the public eye than a Top 25 tennis player. At the very least, the POTUS, right?
b) You only publicize "immoral" actions like taking recreational drugs by revealing positive tests. The impressionable youth would be better off not knowing, if that's really the point and you want to be practical about the matter.
Discuss.
