The NRL announced on Thursday that Martin Kennedy has been suspended for 2 years and 9 months under the League’s Anti-Doping Policy.
The Anti-Doping Tribunal, chaired by former High Court Judge, The Hon Ian Callinan AC QC, found that Mr Kennedy had committed the following violations of the Anti-Doping Policy:
• Attempted use of SARMS S22
• Attempted use of Growth Hormone
• Attempted Use of Chorionic Gonadotrophin
• Attempted Use of Insulin
The Tribunal also found that Mr Kennedy had engaged in conduct which amounted to Aggravating Circumstances under the Anti-Doping Policy, and accordingly increased the minimum sanction of 2 years by an additional 9 months.
The Tribunal imposed a period of suspension of 2 years and 9 months, to run from the date of Mr Kennedy’s provisional suspension which commenced on 19 March 2015.
Mr Kennedy’s suspension will expire on 19 December 2017.
NRL Head of Integrity Nick Weeks welcomed the Anti-Doping Tribunal’s findings and reaffirmed the NRL's commitment to drug-free sport.
“The NRL remains committed to eliminating performance enhancing drugs in our game," Mr Weeks said.
"Drug free sport is essential in ensuring a fair competition and a safe working environment for our players, and we will continue to take the necessary steps to achieve this.
"Today’s decision of the Anti-Doping Tribunal demonstrates and furthers that effort.”
Mr Kennedy has 21 days to appeal the ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
