The Green Bay Packers rely on a training system that includes a close relationship between their players and the both the medical and strength-coaching staffs to keep players from getting suspended by the NFL for violating its steroid policy.
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The NFL has had a recent rash of four-game suspensions for steroid-policy violations, including this week the denied appeal of six players who tested positive for a steroid-masking agent that was not listed among the products ingredients. Among the players suspended was the Minnesota Vikings defensive-tackle duo of Kevin Williams and Pat Williams, though they went to court on Wednesday and won an injunction to stay their suspension.
The Packers last suspension for violating the steroid policy is believed to be Jude Waddy, who was suspended four games at the end of 1998 and start of 99.
Id really put that under the category of continuing education and communication, McCarthy said Wednesday. I think its important for the players to have the relationship with the strength staff and the training staff. Theres conversation about different things that are out there, because ultimately youre responsible for what you put in your body. I think our departments do a very good job of that with our players.
Most NFL players take some form of supplements, and among the Packers players who most regularly can be seen adding them to his drinks in the locker room is linebacker Brandon Chillar.
Chillar said he began using supplements three years ago with the St. Louis Rams and clears them either with the Packers training staff or the NFLs player-accessible Web site that lists league-approved supplement brands.
Chillar said he takes only basic supplements, such as protein or carbohydrate mix.
I try to get a pure supplement, then youll be all right, he said. The stuff that gets you in trouble is the uppers that tries to get you going, I would imagine. Diuretics, same thing.
Chillar said hes been tested for steroids four or five times this season.