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“Due to the ongoing nature of the anti-doping process the AFL will not comment further at this time.”
The minimum penalty for testing positive to cocaine,or what is categorised as a “substance of abuse”,on match day was reduced to three months in January 2021 if the athlete could prove it wasn’t performance enhancing.
Previously an athlete could receive a maximum penalty of four years if an illicit substance was in their system on the day of competition,even if it wasn’t performance enhancing.
Smith was seen as a test case as the first AFL player to test positive to a “substance of abuse” since that amendment to the rules was made.
The players’ association is continuing to support Smith in his battle to resume his career.
“The AFLPA continues to support Joel Smith in the process pursuant to the AFL Anti-Doping Code,” an AFLPA spokesperson said.
“As that process is not yet complete,it remains confidential and it is inappropriate to speculate on details of the case or pre-empt the outcome.
“With the matter ongoing,no further comment further will be made at this time.”
Smith,who has played 42 matches with the Demons,played in three matches after round 23,including two finals. Melbourne lost both finals,but his positive test was not known until after the AFL season finished.
In a letter to members in November,CEO Gary Pert said further action was possible after the Sport Integrity Australia decision was reached.
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“Joel is aware that once club leaders receive the results of the investigation,they will then determine if any further action is appropriate based on cultural standards and expectations,” Pert wrote.
Smith played 14 games this season to bring his total games tally to 42,with his average output similar to that in previous seasons.
Melbourne and Sport Integrity Australia were also contacted for comment.