Clubs remain split on how the AFL’s controversial illicit drugs policy can be improved, as debate over its effectiveness continues to rage within the community. AFL
’s anonymous survey of club bosses showed that significant support remained for the medical model in place, while even those who thought any loopholes that allowed players to take drugs without fear of consequence should be closed indicated the issue remained complex.Getty Images, Supplied
Two club bosses said they didn’t accept it was a loophole but rather a legitimate mechanism to support players while another club boss said everyone needed to be reminded that the policy, agreed to by the players, was a medical model and their acceptance was on the basis it was not used as a punitive instrument. “They don’t have to agree,” the club boss said.
No player has been suspended or named publicly after recording a second strike since the revised policy was introduced in 2015.