SPF Drug Tested Policy - Southern Powerlifting Federation

SPF DRUG-TESTED DIVISON

ANTI-DOPING RULEBOOK

LAST UPDATED FOR CLARITY 01.15.2026

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION AND APPLICATION OF SPF ANTI-DOPING RULES

CHAPTER 2: DEFINITION OF DOPING AND ANTI-DOPING RULE VIOLATIONS

CHAPTER 3: THE PROHIBITED LIST

CHAPTER 4: TESTING AND INVESTIGATIONS

CHAPTER 5: ANALYSIS AND SAMPLES

CHAPTER 6: RESULTS MANAGEMENT

CHAPTER 7: RIGHT TO APPEAL

CHAPTER 8: SANCTIONS ON INDIVIDUALS

CHAPTER 9: CONSEQUENCES TO TEAMS AND MEETS

CHAPTER 10: STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS

CHAPTER 11: TESTING PROTOCOLS AND PROCEDURES

CHAPTER 12: SANCTIONS AND VIOLATIONS, OVERVIEW AND DEFINED

CHAPTER 13: COMPREHENSION: APPEALS AND REVIEW PROCESS

CHAPTER 14: GLOSSARY OF DEFINITIONS – SPF DRUG TESTED DIVISION

CHAPTER 1 — INTRODUCTION AND APPLICATION OF SPF ANTI-DOPING RULES

1.1 PURPOSE OF THESE RULES
The purpose of the Southern Powerlifting Federation (SPF) Anti-Doping Rules is to protect the integrity of fair competition and to promote the health, safety, and well-being of all participants. These rules are intended to prevent, deter, and detect doping in powerlifting. They aim to ensure that the spirit of sport is preserved by enforcing a strong stance against the use of prohibited substances and methods.

1.2 APPLICATION OF THESE RULES
These rules apply to:

All athletes who hold an active SPF membership and compete in the SPF Drug-Tested Division;
Athlete support personnel, including coaches, trainers, medical staff, and agents affiliated with SPF athletes;
Meet directors and officials involved in drug-tested SPF events;
Any other individual subject to the jurisdiction of SPF who participates in or supports SPF-sanctioned events.

1.3 SCOPE OF AUTHORITY
These Anti-Doping Rules are adopted and enforced by the SPF Board of Directors, in alignment with applicable anti-doping principles and national legal requirements. The SPF retains full authority to implement and enforce these rules and reserves the right to update them as needed to maintain alignment with evolving standards in sport and medicine.

1.4 PRINCIPLES OF INTERPRETATION
These rules shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with:

The SPF Rulebook and Code of Conduct;
Due process and natural justice for athletes and support personnel;
The goal of protecting clean sport, lifter safety, and the integrity of SPF competitions.

1.5 RESPONSIBILITIES OF MEMBERS
By becoming a member of SPF and participating in any SPF Drug-Tested competition, athletes and support personnel agree to:

Submit to testing under SPF Anti-Doping procedures;
Comply with the SPF Prohibited Substance List and Testing Protocols;
Refrain from the use or administration of banned substances or methods;
Cooperate with investigations and provide accurate information as requested by SPF officials or designated agents.

1.6 EFFECTIVE DATE
These rules are effective as of 01.15.2026 and apply to all competitions and activities under the SPF Drug-Tested Division thereafter.

1.7 MEETS

Drug-tested meets must be authorized by the Directors of SPF-Anti-Doping and may be done so via email: Spf.drugtesting@gmail.com

CHAPTER 2 — DEFINITION OF DOPING AND ANTI-DOPING RULE VIOLATIONS

2.1 DEFINITION OF DOPING

Doping is defined as the occurrence of one or more of the anti-doping rule violations set forth in this chapter. Any athlete or athlete support personnel who commits any of these violations is subject to disciplinary action and potential sanctions by the SPF.

2.2 ANTI-DOPING RULE VIOLATIONS

The following constitute anti-doping rule violations under SPF authority:

2.2.1 Presence of a Prohibited Substance or its Metabolites or Markers in an Athlete’s Sample
It is a violation if a sample collected from an athlete contains any quantity of a prohibited substance, its metabolites, or markers.

2.2.2 Use or Attempted Use of a Prohibited Substance or Prohibited Method
It is a violation to use or attempt to use any prohibited substance or method, regardless of whether it results in a positive test.

2.2.3 Evading, Refusing, or Failing to Submit to Sample Collection
Failure to comply with a sample collection request without compelling justification will be treated as a violation.

2.2.4 Whereabouts Failures
Athletes who are part of a registered testing pool may be required to provide accurate and up-to-date telephone and email information. Failure to provide this or missed tests may be counted as violations.

2.2.5 Tampering or Attempted Tampering with any Part of Doping Control
Tampering with the doping control process—including manipulating samples, threatening or misleading testing personnel, or falsifying documents—is a violation.

2.2.6 Use of a Prohibited Substance or Prohibited Method
Athletes must not use prohibited substances or prohibited methods unless there is a clear medical justification.

2.2.7 Trafficking or Attempted Trafficking in any Prohibited Substance or Prohibited Method
The distribution or attempted distribution of banned substances or methods is a serious anti-doping rule violation.

2.2.8 Administration or Attempted Administration of a Prohibited Substance or Prohibited Method to an Athlete
Administering or attempting to administer any prohibited substance or method to an athlete, in-competition or out-of-competition, is a violation.

2.2.9 Complicity or Attempted Complicity
Any act or attempted act to assist, encourage, aid, abet, cover up, or conspire in connection with an anti-doping rule violation is itself a violation.

2.3 BURDEN OF PROOF

SPF must establish anti-doping rule violations to the comfortable satisfaction of the disciplinary panel, considering the seriousness of the allegation. The burden of proof lies with SPF, except where otherwise noted (such as contaminated supplement claims).

2.4 STRICT LIABILITY

Athletes are strictly liable for any prohibited substance found in their body. It is not necessary to demonstrate intent, fault, or negligence for a violation to occur under the strict liability principle.

CHAPTER 3 — THE PROHIBITED LIST

3.1 INCORPORATION OF THE WADA PROHIBITED LIST

The SPF Drug-Tested Division fully adopts the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List as the official list of banned substances and methods. This list is updated annually and becomes effective each January 1st.

All SPF athletes are responsible for ensuring they are following the most current version of the WADA Prohibited List, which can be accessed at www.wada-ama.org.

3.2 CATEGORIES OF PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES AND METHODS

The WADA Prohibited List categorizes substances and methods as follows:

Substances and Methods Prohibited At All Times (In- and Out-of-Competition)
These include, but are not limited to:
- Anabolic agents (e.g., steroids)
- Peptide hormones and growth factors
- Beta-2 agonists
- Hormone and metabolic modulators
- Diuretics and other masking agents
- Manipulation of blood or blood components
Substances and Methods Prohibited In-Competition Only
These include:
- Stimulants
- Narcotics
- Cannabinoids
- Glucocorticoids (unless administered out of competition and by permitted routes)
Substances Prohibited in Particular Sports
While not specifically applied to powerlifting, SPF acknowledges substances banned in other sports for educational purposes and transparency.

3.3 SPECIFIED VS NON-SPECIFIED SUBSTANCES

Specified Substances: These substances are more likely to have been consumed for a reason other than performance enhancement. Sanctions for violations involving specified substances may vary based on context and supporting evidence.
Non-Specified Substances: These typically have a higher potential for performance enhancement and carry stricter penalties. The burden of proof for mitigating sanctions is much higher.

3.4 MONITORING PROGRAM

WADA may include certain substances in its Monitoring Program to detect patterns of misuse. These substances are not prohibited but are tracked to determine if they should be included in future Prohibited Lists. SPF supports the use of monitoring data to adapt anti-doping practices over time.

3.5 RESPONSIBILITY FOR SUBSTANCES USED

It is the sole responsibility of the athlete to ensure that no prohibited substance enters their body, intentionally or unintentionally. This includes:

Supplements
Prescription medications
Over-the-counter drugs
Recreational substances

Athletes are advised to consult SPF resources or anti-doping authorities prior to using any supplement or medication.

3.6 EDUCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY

The SPF is committed to educating athletes, coaches, and support personnel, as needed, about the Prohibited List through:

Updates
Live Q&A, as needed
Digital reference guides, as needed.

Athletes are encouraged to request additional information at any time to ensure full compliance and may do so by email: aforbes.spf@gmail.com

CHAPTER 4 — TESTING AND INVESTIGATIONS

4.1 PURPOSE OF TESTING AND INVESTIGATIONS

The SPF Drug-Tested Division is committed to ensuring clean and fair competition. Testing and investigations serve to:

Detect and deter the use of prohibited substances and methods.
Protect the rights of clean athletes.
Uphold the reputation and integrity of SPF and the sport of powerlifting.

All athletes are subject to testing and must comply with SPF’s anti-doping protocols at all times.

4.2 TYPES OF TESTING

a) In-Competition Testing
Conducted during SPF-sanctioned events, beginning at weigh-ins and ending after the awards ceremony or as defined in the meet briefing. Selection may be based on:

Placement (e.g., 1st place finishers)
Random selection
Targeted selection (based on suspicion or performance trends)

b) Out-of-Competition Testing
This occurs if an athlete tests positive. It may occur at any time and location with no advance notice. Athletes in the registered testing pool must provide accurate information.

4.3 TESTING AUTHORITY

Testing may be conducted by:

The SPF Anti-Doping Team
Certified third-party collection agencies

All testing personnel must be trained, certified, and authorized by SPF or a recognized anti-doping agency.

4.4 ATHLETE OBLIGATIONS DURING TESTING

Athletes must:

Provide valid photo identification upon request.
Remain in visual contact with doping control personnel from notification until sample provision.
Comply with all instructions and complete all documentation truthfully.
Provide urine and/or blood samples in accordance with standard protocols.

Refusal, evasion, or failure to comply with is considered an anti-doping rule of violation and may result in immediate suspension and further sanction.

4.5 INVESTIGATIONS

The SPF may conduct investigations into possible anti-doping rule violations arising from:

Analytical findings (positive test results)
Non-analytical evidence (e.g., possession, trafficking, or attempted use)
Whistleblower testimony
Irregular athlete behavior or biological passport data

Investigations will be handled confidentially by the SPF Anti-Doping Administrator and, when necessary, external advisors or legal counsel.

4.6 SAMPLE COLLECTION STANDARDS

All sample collection procedures will follow the SPF’s Standard for Testing and Investigations (SSTI), including:

Chain of custody documentation
Secure transport and storage
Accredited laboratory analysis
Proper handling of A and B samples

Athletes may request analysis of the B sample in the event of an adverse finding.

4.7 CONFIDENTIALITY AND DUE PROCESS

All results, investigations, and case information will remain confidential unless:

Disclosure is required by law
A confirmed anti-doping rule violation has occurred
The athlete consents to public disclosure

The SPF ensures due process, the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise, and the right to a fair hearing.

CHAPTER 5 — ANALYSIS OF SAMPLES

5.1 PURPOSE OF ANALYSIS

All samples collected under SPF authority are analyzed to detect prohibited substances and methods listed in the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List. The purpose of sample analysis is to ensure fair competition, uphold the integrity of the sport, and protect clean athletes from doping-related harm.

5.2 STANDARDS FOR ANALYSIS

All sample analysis will be conducted in accordance with:

SPF’s own internal anti-doping policies

5.3 ANALYTICAL PROCESS

a) A and B Samples:
Each urine or blood sample collected is divided into an A sample and a B sample. The A sample is tested first. If the result indicates the presence of a prohibited substance or method, the athlete will be notified of an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF) and the B sample may be tested upon request, at the athlete’s additional expense.

b) Confirmation of Findings:
Athletes have the right to be present or represented during the B sample analysis. If the B sample confirms the A sample results, the case proceeds as an anti-doping rule violation (ADRV).

c) Negative Results:
If no prohibited substances or methods are found, the test result is recorded as negative, and the athlete is notified, with no further action taken.

5.4 STORAGE AND RE-ANALYSIS OF SAMPLES

SPF reserves the right to store samples for future analysis. This is done:

To utilize advanced detection methods as they become available
To enhance long-term deterrence of doping
In accordance with SPF’s current 10-year statute of limitations

Re-analysis may occur at any time during the 10-year period following the original sample collection. Athletes are subject to sanctions if a violation is later confirmed via re-analysis.

5.5 REPORTING OF RESULTS

Laboratories will report test results to:

SPF Anti-Doping Administrator
The athlete and/or their representative

Reports will include:

Whether the sample is positive or negative
Identification of any prohibited substances or methods detected
Any atypical findings that may require further investigation

All results will be handled confidentially unless a violation is confirmed.

5.6 PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES DETECTED

A sample that returns a positive result for a substance or method on the WADA Prohibited List is considered an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF) unless the athlete:

Can demonstrate that the substance is not prohibited out-of-competition (where applicable)
Provides sufficient documentation proving no rule violation occurred

5.7 CHAIN OF CUSTODY AND VALIDITY

The SPF requires a strict chain of custody documentation from collection to laboratory delivery. Any deviation from standard protocol must be documented and evaluated to determine whether the sample is valid for analysis. If a sample’s integrity cannot be verified, it may be invalidated, and a new test may be ordered.

CHAPTER 6 — RESULTS MANAGEMENT

6.1 INITIAL REVIEW OF RESULTS

Once an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF) or other evidence of a possible Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV) is reported, the SPF Anti-Doping Administrator will:

Verify that the sample collection and analytical process complied with all applicable procedures
Determine whether a departure from standard procedures could have caused the adverse finding

If no such factors negate the validity of the results, the case proceeds to formal results management.

6.2 NOTIFICATION TO ATHLETE

If an AAF or other ADRV is confirmed, the SPF will promptly notify the athlete in writing. The notification will include:

The specific violation(s) alleged
The evidence supporting the charge, including lab results
The athlete’s rights and responsibilities, including:
- The right to request B sample analysis
- The right to provide a written explanation or contest the findings
- The option to waive a hearing and accept the sanction
The provisional suspension status, if applicable

Athletes have 7 calendar days from the date of notification to respond, unless otherwise stated.

6.3 PROVISIONAL SUSPENSION

A Provisional Suspension may be imposed immediately upon notification of an AAF or other serious ADRV. This means the athlete is temporarily barred from competition until the case is resolved, in the drug-tested division.

A provisional suspension is mandatory in the following cases:

Detection of a non-specified substance or method
Use or attempted use of a prohibited method
Tampering or attempted tampering with the testing process

Athletes may contest the imposition of the suspension through a prompt hearing.

6.4 HEARING PROCESS

SPF will convene a Hearing Panel, made up of three impartial individuals regarding the athlete in question, from The SPF Board of Directors, with expertise in anti-doping, legal process, and/or sport governance.

Key Features of the Hearing:

The athlete may submit a written response and/or request an oral hearing
Hearings may be conducted in person or virtually
The athlete may be accompanied by legal counsel or a representative
All evidence will be reviewed, and the athlete has the right to present rebuttal

The panel will decide based on the preponderance of evidence and issue a written decision with justification and any sanctions imposed.

6.5 ADMISSION AND WAIVER OPTION

An athlete may choose to:

Admit the violation
Accept the standard sanction
Waive the right to a hearing

This must be done in writing, and the sanction will then be imposed without further review. Cooperation may result in reduction of sanction, per SPF rules.

6.6 SANCTIONS AND CONSEQUENCES

If a violation is confirmed, applicable sanctions may include:

Disqualification of results from the competition in which the violation occurred
Suspension from competition, which may range from 1 to 4 years, depending on the violation, in the SPF drug-tested division only.
Permanent ineligibility for serious or multiple violations
Forfeiture of awards, records, and rankings

Repeat offenses result in progressively harsher penalties.

6.7 PUBLIC DISCLOSURE

Once the disciplinary process concludes, SPF will publicly disclose any confirmed ADRV, including:

The name of the athlete
The rule violated
The substance or method detected (if applicable)
The sanction imposed

This will be published on the SPF website and/or social media channels, as appropriate.

6.8 MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS

All case files and associated documentation will be securely stored for a minimum of 10 years. Access is limited to authorized SPF personnel upon request.

6.9 RESPONSIBILITY FOR RESULTS MANAGEMENT

The SPF Drug-Tested Division, in collaboration with its designated third-party testing agency, is responsible for the management of test results, potential violations, and the associated disciplinary process. This includes:

Receipt and assessment of laboratory reports
Notification to athletes of adverse findings
Coordination of hearings or appeals
Enforcement of sanctions where applicable

All actions will be documented and handled with confidentiality until official sanctions are imposed.

6.10 NOTIFICATION OF POTENTIAL VIOLATIONS

Upon receipt of an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF) or other evidence of an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV), SPF shall:

Notify the athlete in writing, including:
- Name of the substance or method involved
- Date and type of test conducted
- Rights of the athlete to request (B) sample analysis or hearing
- Notify relevant parties (coaches, meet directors, other federations if applicable) if necessary for case management

6.11 (B) SAMPLE ANALYSIS

If the athlete requests (B) sample testing:

The athlete has the right to be present (or have a representative present) at the opening and analysis of the (B) sample
- Costs associated with (B) sample testing is the responsibility of the athlete
- If the (B) sample confirms the (A) sample, results management will proceed
- If the (B) sample is negative, no further action will be taken, and the athlete will be cleared

6.12 PROVISIONAL SUSPENSION

A provisional suspension may be imposed after notification of a potential violation and before a final decision is rendered. This prohibits the athlete from competing or participating in any drug-tested SPF-sanctioned activities until the case is resolved.

6.13 WAIVER OF HEARING

An athlete may accept the proposed sanction and waive their right to a hearing. Doing so will expedite the disciplinary process, and sanctions will be finalized. Access to disciplinary records is limited to authorized SPF personnel and available upon request.

6.14 RESPONSIBILITY FOR RESULTS MANAGEMENT

Receipt and assessment of laboratory reports
- Notification to athletes of adverse findings
- Coordination of hearings or appeals
- Enforcement of sanctions where applicable

All actions will be documented and handled with confidentiality until official sanctions are imposed.

6.15 HEARING PANEL AND PROCESS

If the athlete requests a hearing:

A neutral panel of three (3) individuals will be appointed to review the case
- The athlete may present evidence, call witnesses, and be represented by counsel
- The panel will issue a written decision within a reasonable timeframe
- All decisions are subject to appeal as outlined in Chapter 10

CHAPTER 7 — RIGHT TO APPEAL

7.1 RIGHT OF APPEAL

Any athlete or other individual who has been found to have committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV), or who has been subject to a decision under this rulebook, has the right to appeal against the decision.

Appeals may be lodged against the following:

A finding of an Anti-Doping Rule Violation
The imposition of a sanction
The decision not to find a violation
The decision to impose a specific period of ineligibility

7.2 WHO MAY APPEAL

The following parties have standing to appeal decisions made under SPF anti-doping proceedings:

The athlete or other individual who is the subject of the decision
The Southern Powerlifting Federation (SPF)

7.3 TIMEFRAME FOR APPEAL

Appeals must be submitted in writing within 7 calendar days (via email to appeals.spf@gmail.com) of the date the decision was communicated to the athlete or other involved party.

Failure to appeal within the allowed timeframe will render the decision final and binding.

7.4 SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Appeals must be submitted in writing to the SPF Drug-Testing Administrator and must include:

Full name and contact details of the appellant
A copy of the original decision being appealed
A detailed statement outlining the grounds for appeal
Any supporting documentation or evidence
Whether a hearing is requested
Signature of the appellant and date of submission

Incomplete appeals may be rejected or returned for clarification. Forms will be given to athlete’s via email: appeals.spf@gmail.com

7.5 APPEALS PANEL AND PROCESS

Upon receipt of a valid appeal, SPF will appoint a three-person Appeals Panel, which will be:

Independent of the original hearing panel
Composed of individuals with relevant legal, medical, and/or sport governance expertise
Free of conflicts of interest in the matter at hand

The Appeals Process includes:

A full review of the case file and appeal submission
The option of a written or oral hearing (at the request of the appellant)
The opportunity for both parties to submit additional evidence or rebuttal
A final, written decision with justification

The Appeals Panel may:

Uphold the original decision
Overturn the decision
Modify the sanction
Remand the case for further review

The Appeals Panel’s decision is final within SPF jurisdiction.

7.6 STAY OF SANCTION DURING APPEAL

Filing an appeal does not automatically suspend a sanction. However, an athlete may request a temporary stay of the sanction during the appeal process, which will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Appeals Panel.

Factors considered include:

Likelihood of success on appeal
Potential harm to the athlete
The seriousness of the alleged violation

CHAPTER 8 — SANCTIONS ON INDIVIDUALS

8.1 IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS

When an athlete or participant is found to have committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV), sanctions will be imposed in accordance with the severity of the violation, the degree of fault, and applicable mitigating or aggravating factors.

Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:

Disqualification of results
Periods of ineligibility
Fines
Public disclosure
Permanent suspension (in extreme or repeat cases)

All sanctions imposed will be proportionate, fair, and aligned with the SPF’s goal of maintaining integrity within the sport.

8.2 DISQUALIFICATION OF RESULTS

Any competitive results obtained by the athlete from the date of the ADRV or the date of sample collection (whichever is earlier) may be disqualified. This includes:

Forfeiture of medals, rankings, points, records, and prizes
Removal of official recognition of achievements during the disqualified period

If the violation occurred during a competition, all results from that competition will be disqualified, including lifts, placings, and records.

8.3 INELIGIBILITY PERIODS

Sanctions resulting in periods of ineligibility are based on the nature of the violation:

8.3.1 Standard Sanction Lengths

First Violation (Presence or Use of Prohibited Substances):
2 years, unless the athlete can establish the ADRV was unintentional, then it will be at the discretion of the Board.
Whereabouts Failures or Filing Failures:
12–24 months depending on circumstances and degree of negligence
Tampering, Trafficking, or Complicity:
lifetime ban, including lifetime ban from the Federation
Multiple Violations:
Extended or lifetime bans depending on severity and number of offenses

8.4 MULTIPLE VIOLATIONS

If an athlete commits multiple ADRVs, the period of ineligibility will be calculated as follows:

Second ADRV:
Usually results in permanent disqualification

Each additional offense is considered more severe and may carry increasingly strict consequences.

8.5 REINSTATEMENT AFTER INELIGIBILITY

Athletes may resume competition only after meeting all of the following conditions:

Full completion of the ineligibility period
Payment of any associated fines
Compliance with all reinstatement testing requirements
Attendance at a reinstatement education session (if applicable)

The SPF reserves the right to deny reinstatement for unresolved infractions or outstanding obligations.

8.6 EFFECT OF INELIGIBILITY

During the ineligibility period, the athlete may not:

Compete in any drug-tested SPF-sanctioned event
Be present in the warm-up or competition areas at any drug-tested SPF events

Violation of these terms will result in an extension of the suspension.

8.7 PUBLIC DISCLOSURE

In accordance with SPF policy, the federation will disclose publicly:

The name of the individual
The nature of the violation
The sanction imposed
The effective dates of the sanction

This information will be posted on the official SPF website and/or social media platforms. SPF reserves the right to notify affiliated organizations and sponsors where relevant.

8.8 REMOVAL OF RECORDS AND TITLES

Any records (state, national, or world) obtained during or affected by the violation will be invalidated (the meet in question). Athletes will be required to return any medals, awards, cash, prizes, or certificates received during the affected period.

8.9 DETERMINATION OF SANCTIONS

Sanctions for Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) are determined based on:

Type of substance or method used
Intent or negligence
The athlete’s degree of fault
First-time vs. repeat offenses

The SPF Drug-Tested Division follows a fair, evidence-based approach in determining all penalties.

8.10 TYPES OF SANCTIONS

Sanctions may include one or more of the following:

Period of Ineligibility: Temporary or lifetime ban from SPF-sanctioned drug-tested competitions and activities
Disqualification of Results: Removal of titles, medals, records, and placements from the date of violation
Fines or Repayment of Prizes: Forfeiture of awards, stipends, or prize money received
Public Disclosure: After due process, the offender’s name, violation, and sanction will be publicly announced

8.11 FIRST-TIME OFFENSE GUIDELINES

Intentional Use of Prohibited Substances or Methods: 4-year ban
Unintentional Use (With Proof of No Significant Fault): 2-year ban, subject to reduction based on circumstances
Contaminated Supplements: Up to 2 years, based on level of diligence and supporting evidence
Refusal or Tampering with Doping Control: 4-year ban to lifetime ban from the SPF

8.12 SECOND AND MULTIPLE VIOLATIONS

A second offense may result in a lifetime ban
Lesser offenses (e.g., missed test, refusal) may be combined with a previous violation to extend the period of ineligibility

8.13 MINOR ATHLETES

Athletes under the age of 18 will be subject to the same rules but may be eligible for reduced sanctions if evidence supports that they were misled or manipulated by adults.

8.14 COACHES, OFFICIALS, AND SUPPORT PERSONNEL

Support staff found to be encouraging or facilitating doping may receive sanctions equal to or greater than those for athletes, including permanent suspension from all SPF events.

CHAPTER 9 — CONSEQUENCES TO TEAMS AND MEETS

9.1 CONSEQUENCES TO TEAMS

If two or more members of a registered team commit ADRVs during an SPF-sanctioned meet:

The team may be disqualified from the event
Team points and awards will be forfeited
The team may be barred from registering as a competitive unit in future SPF events for a specified period

9.2 MEET DIRECTORS AND ORGANIZERS

If a meet director, event organizer, or affiliated coach is found to have aided or concealed doping practices:

That individual will be banned from hosting SPF events
All involved lifters may be subjected to further testing and/or suspension
The event may lose SPF sanctioning status, and meet results may be nullified

9.3 VOIDED RECORDS AND TITLES

In any circumstance where a lifter is disqualified for a doping violation:

All personal records, event placements, and SPF records are nullified
Official SPF historical databases will be updated to reflect the changes

9.4 PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

To ensure transparency, the SPF will publicly disclose:

The name of the individual
The substance or method involved
Sanction duration and terms
A summary of the violation (without confidential health data)

CHAPTER 10 — STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS

10.1 TIME LIMIT FOR ACTIONS

No Anti-Doping Rule Violation (ADRV) may be asserted against an athlete or other individual unless the action is commenced within one (1) year from the date the violation occurred.

10.2 EXCEPTIONS TO TIME LIMIT

If the violation involved fraudulent conduct or intentional concealment by the individual, the one-year statute may be extended.
SPF reserves the right to reopen any investigation where credible new evidence emerges, regardless of time passed, provided the original violation occurred within 1 year.

CHAPTER 11 — TESTING PROTOCOLS AND PROCEDURES

11.1 PURPOSE

To ensure fair competition and the integrity of SPF Drug-Tested meets, lifters are subject to urinalysis-based drug testing conducted under strict protocols for accuracy, fairness, and chain of custody.

11.2 SELECTION FOR TESTING

Lifters may be selected randomly, by placing, or by record attempt.
Meet Directors may select up to (2) lifters at will. (E.G.: Should they suspect the lifter is doping or random etc.)
Meet Directors must notify selected lifters immediately following their final lift.
Refusal to test will result in disqualification and suspension from the SPF Drug-Tested Division.

11.3 ADMINISTRATION OF TESTS

Tests are administered by SPF-approved testing agents trained in proper collection and documentation procedures.
Once called for testing, lifters must present a valid photo ID and remain under observation, by (2) SPF- approved testing agents until the test is completed.
The SPF – approved testing agents must be of the same gender as the lifter completing the sample.
The sample must be collected under direct supervision, labeled, and sealed in the lifter’s presence.
Minor lifters must have a parent and (2) SPF-approved testing trained agents present and observing at the time of collection.

11.4 CHAIN OF CUSTODY AND ANALYSIS

Chain of custody documentation must accompany each sample.
Results will be reported directly to the Senior SPF Anti-Doping Officer.

11.5 RESULTS MANAGEMENT

Negative results will be recorded with no further action.
Positive results will trigger the SPF Results Management Process, including potential sanctions and the opportunity to appeal.
All positive results, including refused or tampered tests, will be published after adjudication.

11.6 COSTS AND FUNDING

Drug testing is funded through the SPF Drug-Tested Division, which is funded through SPF Drug-Tested Division lifters fees.
Lifters are not required to for pay out-of-pocket testing unless required for appeal or retesting.

CHAPTER 12 — SANCTIONS AND VIOLATIONS, OVERVIEW & DEFINED

12.1 OVERVIEW

Sanctions are penalties imposed on athletes or personnel who violate SPF anti-doping rules. These sanctions serve to protect the integrity of drug-tested competition and ensure a level playing field for all lifters.

12.2 TYPES OF VIOLATIONS

Violations include, but are not limited to:

Presence of a Prohibited Substance in an athlete’s sample.
Use or Attempted Use of a prohibited substance or method.
Refusal or Failure to Submit to Testing when selected.
Tampering or Attempted Tampering with any part of the testing process.
Possession of Prohibited Substances or Methods.
Trafficking or Attempted Trafficking of prohibited substances.
Complicity in another individual’s violation (e.g., assisting, covering up).
Prohibited Association with SPF drug-tested division support staff serving a sanction.

12.3 SANCTIONS

Sanctions will be applied based on the severity of the violation and may include:

Disqualification of results, awards, and records.
Suspension from competition for a set period.
Lifetime ban from the SPF Drug-Tested Division in extreme or repeat cases.
Public Disclosure of the violation and sanction after final adjudication.

Suspensions are generally as follows (subject to review by the SPF Anti-Doping Panel):

Offense	Suspension Length
First Offense	Up to 2 years
Second Offense	up to Lifetime Ban
Third Offense or Tampering	Lifetime Ban

12.4 START DATE AND APPLICATION

Sanctions begin from the date of the provisional suspension or final decision. Athletes are prohibited from participating in any SPF-sanctioned events during the suspension.

12.5 DISQUALIFICATION OF RESULTS

Any results obtained during the violation period (including records and placings) will be invalidated and removed from SPF records.

12.6 COACHES AND SUPPORT PERSONNEL

Sanctions may also apply to coaches, handlers, or others found to be complicit in doping violations (e.g.: forcefully or intentionally participating in or concealing in doping practices). These individuals may face bans from SPF events and official roles.

CHAPTER 13— COMPREHENSION: APPEALS AND REVIEW PROCESS

13.1 RIGHT TO APPEAL

Any athlete or official who is sanctioned under the SPF Drug-Tested Anti-Doping Rules has the right to appeal the decision. Appeals are heard by an independent SPF Appeals Panel.

13.2 APPEAL PROCESS

Written Submission: A formal appeal must be submitted within 14 days of notification of the violation. It must include:
- A written explanation of the grounds for appeal
- Any supporting documents, evidence, or witness statements
Review: The SPF Appeals Panel will review the case, interview relevant parties, and assess all documentation.
Hearing (Optional): The appellant may request a hearing, which may be conducted in person, via phone, or online.

13.3 OUTCOMES

After review, the Appeals Panel may:

Uphold the original sanction
Modify the sanction (reduce or increase)
Overturn the sanction

The decision of the Appeals Panel is final and binding.

13.4 REINSTATEMENT

After serving a full suspension, athletes may return to SPF Drug-Tested competition only after:

Reapplying for eligibility
Submitting updated membership documentation
Undergoing testing, if required by the SPF Anti-Doping Officer

Reinstatements will be notified via email from: REIN.SPF@gmail.com

CHAPTER 14 – GLOSSARY OF DEFINITIONS – SPF DRUG-TESTED DIVISION

To ensure clarity and uniformity throughout the Southern Powerlifting Federation’s Drug-Tested Division Rulebook, the following terms are hereby defined for the purposes of application, enforcement, and interpretation within all SPF-sanctioned drug-tested events, decisions, and policies.

Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF):
A report from a WADA-accredited laboratory indicating the presence of a prohibited substance or its metabolites or markers in a sample collected from a lifter.

Anti-Doping Organization (ADO):
Any national or international organization responsible for anti-doping rules, including testing, results management, and sanctioning of athletes. In the SPF, this refers to the SPF Drug-Tested Division and any affiliated anti-doping agents approved by the Federation.

Athlete:
Any individual who competes in an SPF-sanctioned event, regardless of division or level.

Athlete Support Personnel:

Individuals working with or treating athletes, including coaches, trainers, medical staff, agents, or any person assisting an athlete.

Attempt:

Conduct that constitutes a substantial step toward committing an anti-doping rule violation, regardless of its successful completion or lack thereof.

Attempted Use:
Conduct that falls short of actual use of a prohibited substance or method but still demonstrates the intention to use it. Proof of actual ingestion or application is not necessary.

Board:
The governing body of the SPF, which holds final authority on decisions related to rule interpretations, enforcement, and policy.

Chain of Custody:
The documented process that accounts for the integrity and handling of a doping control sample from collection through transport to analysis.

Code (WADA Code):

The World Anti-Doping Code, which provides the foundation for harmonized anti-doping policies worldwide.

Consequences of Anti-Doping Rule Violations:

Includes ineligibility, disqualification of results, forfeiture of awards, and public disclosure of the violation.

Contaminated Product:

A product containing a prohibited substance not listed on the label or otherwise disclosed.

Competition:
An SPF-sanctioned drug-tested meet, from the weigh-in to the completion of the final lift and awards ceremony. “In-Competition” refers to this full timeframe unless otherwise defined.

Doping:
Any occurrence of one or more of the anti-doping rule violations outlined in Chapter 1 of this Rulebook.

Doping Control:
All steps and processes involved in sample collection, documentation, laboratory analysis, results management, hearings, and appeals.

In-Competition:
The period commencing at 11:59 PM on the day before the SPF-sanctioned drug-tested event through the end of the awards ceremony or official close of the event.

Independent Observer:

An individual or body assigned to observe and report on doping control procedures without interference.

Ineligibility:

A period during which an individual is barred from participating in any SPF activity, including meets and official roles.

Lifter:
Any athlete participating in an SPF competition, regardless of tested or non-tested status.

Marker:
A compound, group of compounds, or biological indicator that reveals the use of a prohibited substance or method.

Member:
Any lifter, coach, judge, staff member, or affiliate holding an active SPF membership.

No Fault or Negligence:

When an athlete proves they did not knowingly or reasonably suspect the use of a prohibited substance or method.

Out-of-Competition:

Any time not considered in-competition, including training periods and off-season.

Possession:
Physical or constructive control over a prohibited substance or method. It does not include lawful possession by a person with legal authority such as medical personnel unless provided to an athlete for prohibited use.

Prohibited List:
The WADA-issued list of banned substances and methods, as adopted by the SPF Drug-Tested Division.

Prohibited Method:
Any process or technique described in the Prohibited List that is banned whether or not substances are used.

Prohibited Substance:
Any substance that is banned under the current WADA Prohibited List and adopted by the SPF Drug-Tested Division.

Sample:
Any biological material collected for the purposes of doping control, including urine, blood, or other approved substances.

Tampering:
Any intentional interference with the doping control process, such as sample substitution, falsification of documents, or threatening witnesses.

Testing:
The parts of the doping control process that involves planning, collecting, transporting, and analyzing samples.

Trafficking:

Distribution or attempted distribution of a prohibited substance or method.

Use:
The application, ingestion, injection, or consumption by any means of any prohibited substance or method.

WADA:
The World Anti-Doping Agency. SPF Drug-Tested Division uses WADA’s standards and Prohibited List as the foundation for its own drug testing protocols.