1. TEXAS A&M INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
A Member of The Texas A&M University System
Department of Athletics, Athletic Training
Substance Abuse Philosophy
The Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) acknowledges the pressures placed
on student-athletes to excel both on the court and in the classroom. Our student-athletes
are highly visible representatives of Texas A&M International University. As a result
their conduct is important not only to themselves, but to TAMIU as a whole.
One of the major problems encountered by student-athletes as a result of the pressures of
competition, class-work, and high visibility is the abuse of alcohol and the use of nontherapeutic drugs, banned substances and tobacco. The Athletic department at TAMIU;
coaches, administrators, and athletic trainers is committed to providing a safe, healthy
environment for our student-athletes.
In light of health, safety, and social concerns, the Athletic Department has instituted a
departmental substance abuse policy. While problems with alcohol, tobacco, and drug
use are not confined to student-athletes, they are of special concern due to the status of
student-athletes as representatives of TAMIU.
The use of alcohol and tobacco are discouraged on a year round basis, and will not be
tolerated during the student-athlete’s competitive season.
The use of dietary supplements is prevalent in athletics. Some athletes are using
supplements for a competitive edge, some to gain/lose weight, some to make up for
dietary lacks. Many athletes misuse supplements and may endanger their health by doing
so. Many supplements contain substances which are dangerous and may be banned by
sports governing bodies. Some supplements may be beneficial for the student-athlete.
As a result, the use of any dietary supplements by TAMIU student-athletes must be
approved by a TAMIU team doctor. The TAMIU doctors and Athletic Trainers can only
check what may be listed on the labels of supplements that are brought to their attention.
As labeling laws and quality control are inconsistent in the supplement industry, the
ATHLETE is responsible for any substance that he/she may take.

2. The use of non-therapeutic drugs will not be tolerated. The Texas A&M International
University Athletic Department, as well as the NCAA will conduct drug tests of studentathletes throughout the year. Prior to beginning practice a student-athlete must sign a
Drug Testing Consent Form. The student-athlete will be given no more than 24 hours
notice for the drug test. TAMIU testing will be conducted by a TAMIU team doctor or
his/her designated representative. NCAA testing will be conducted by representatives of
the NCAA in cooperation with the TAMIU Drug-Testing Site Coordinator.
A positive drug test will render the student-athlete ineligible to participate in regular and
post-season competition for the remainder of the season in which they are tested and
he/she shall be charged with the loss of a minimum of one season of competition in all
sports. The student-athlete shall remain ineligible for future seasons, until he/she tests
negative in a test given by a TAMIU team doctor and his/her eligibility is restored by the
Director of Athletics. The penalty for missing a scheduled drug test is the same as for a
positive drug test. As per NCAA regulations, a student who has been registered
ineligible due to a positive drug test will remain ineligible if he/she transfers to another
institution.
A TAMIU student-athlete convicted on charges involving drugs or alcohol (, MIP,
possession, DUI, etc) will be subject to the same penalty as for a positive drug test.
If a student-athlete self-reports drug use, he/she will be ineligible until he/she tests
negative, but will then be allowed complete the season at the discretion of the Director of
Athletics. The athlete must report substance use prior to the announcement of a drug test.
Updated: 11-3-05
4-27-06
5-24-10