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Stampeders’ Sindani suspended two games for performance-enhancing drug violation

Jan 6, 2023 | 10:41 AM

Calgary Stampeders wide receiver Richie Sindani was suspended two games by the CFL on Friday for testing positive for banned substances.

The 27-year-old from Regina tested positive for Methandienone and Stanozolol, the league said in a statement.

“We were very disappointed when informed of Richie’s violation,” the Stampeders said in a statement. “The team trusts he will learn from his mistake and avoid another occurrence. 

“This incident once again proves players need to be fully cognizant about the supplements they are taking.”

A suspended player can’t play in regular-season or playoff games, but the club decides whether to allow the player to be involved in training camp, pre-season games, practices and meetings.

Under the CFL and Players’ Association joint drug policy, a player who tests positive or fails to provide a sample faces a two-game suspension upon first violation.

A second violation is a nine-game suspension, a third violation brings a yearlong suspension and a fourth violation is a lifetime ban.

Players undergo mandatory drug testing following a positive result. 

They’re required to participate in an assessment and clinical evaluation to determine if additional counselling is needed.

Sindani, a University of Calgary Dinos alum, has played 60 games over four seasons for the Stampeders.

He compiled 26 catches for 255 yards and a touchdown in 13 games in 2022.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 6, 2023.

The Canadian Press