A sharp message will be delivered to New Zealand softball players in the coming weeks after three players, including two national representatives, returned positive drug tests when tested by Drug Free
Sport New Zealand after the National Softball League final. 

The players – Aaron Neemia, Thomas Cameron and Steven Manson – tested positive to cannabis and now face bans of between 2 and 18 months. For Neemia the test result cost him his place in the Black Sox team that was named after the NSL final to compete in the world championship. 

“It is disappointing that the three of our elite players had let themselves and the sport down,” Softball New Zealand General Manager Dane Dougan said.
“The use of cannabis as a recreational activity is illegal and is something we will not tolerate.
“We are continually working on ways to address this issue over and above what we as are currently doing. We are treating this very seriously and will continue to educate our athletes on this issue.” 

Dougan also noted that the Sports Tribunal has been very clear in the judgements that had been handed down to the players and SNZ support the DFSNZ rulings.
While disappointed with the players Softball New Zealand will continue to support the athletes through what is undoubtedly a tough time for them.