Full article:
Swans flag hero faces ban over drug test
CRAIG O'DONOGHUE, The West Australian February 4, 2011, 5:21 am
A dark cloud hangs over Swan Districts premiership midfielder Travis Casserly and his dream of playing in the AFL after the WAFL launched proceedings against him over a positive test for a performance-enhancing drug.
The positive samples were taken after Swans' one-point victory in last year's grand final.
Casserly, 23, is believed to have tested positive to a drug similar to pseudoephedrine, which contains stimulant properties that can heighten alertness and accelerate heart rate.
He was randomly selected by the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority after the grand final win over Claremont. The A and B urine samples were tested last year and an investigation followed.
The WA Football Commission, Swan Districts and ASADA refused to comment.
The West Australian _understands the WAFL notified Casserly that he would be charged this week. A hearing is likely to be held within a fortnight.
The notification comes at the worst possible time for Casserly. Richmond invited him to train with them for the opportunity to earn the final place on their rookie list.
This is the first year that the AFL has allowed clubs to trial players in the lead-up to the season and play them in games.
Casserly spent three years on Richmond's list after being drafted in 2005. He is competing with South
Australian small forward Liam Corrie and Victorian midfielder Mitch Keddell for the Tigers' final contract.
Keddell and Casserly were named in Richmond's squad to play against the Indigenous All-Stars in Alice Springs tonight.
If found guilty, Casserly faces up to a two-year ban. It is understood he will challenge the tests and say he took the drug to clear up a head cold.
Athletes are permitted to take some medication out of competition but cannot test positive on match day because it can be used to enhance performance.
Casserly was one of four WAFL players tested after the grand final. He performed well on the day, shutting Claremont playmaker Ryan Brabazon out of the match.
Casserly became the second WAFL player to test positive to performance-enhancing drugs last season.
East Perth midfielder Dean Cadwallader tested positive to nandrolone during State squad training and was stood down by the Royals. His tribunal hearing is yet to be scheduled.
Casserly's management could not be contacted last night.
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-/breaking/8773765/swans-flag-hero-faces-ban-over-drug-test/
