Sept. 8, 2011

Due to recent unconfirmed media reports referencing UCLA Athletics' drug testing policy, I wanted to take this opportunity to discuss our program policy.

First, and most importantly, I want to stress that my remarks pertain to the policy in general, not any specific instance. Federal student privacy laws prohibit us from disclosing certain personal information about student-athletes, including drug testing and any related results. We will never confirm or deny any reports because of those laws.

The UCLA Drug Education and Testing Program is just what its title states- it's a program that emphasizes education and counseling, along with a testing component. Our highest priority is always the welfare and well-being of our student-athletes and this policy is no different. The program has been in place and effective for many years. It is also continually reviewed by experienced professionals inside and outside of UCLA.

Testing of student-athletes occurs throughout the year. The educational component of the program includes individual meetings and mandatory counseling with specialists in the medical field. The punitive component is based on progressive discipline. Students have the right to appeal any result or decision, per the policy.

Many schools nationally choose not to have an institutional program for drug testing their student athletes, including several in the Pac-12. For those institutions that do have a program, including UCLA, policy guidelines and penalties vary and are typically set by an institutional committee.

Finally, I want to reiterate that I continue to be proud of our athletic program as a whole and especially all the student-athletes in it. Coming to work each day is a daily reminder of what makes Bruin Athletics special. I know that I speak for all our staff and coaches when I say that I cherish the opportunity to positively impact the lives of the young men and women in our program.

(To view UCLA's Drug Education and Testing Program, click here and go to page 73 of the Student-Athlete Handbook and Day Planner)