Anti-Doping Regulations
Chapter 1: General Provisions
Article 1 (Purpose)
These regulations aim to promote anti-doping activities in the sport of pickleball and to ensure a clean and fair competitive environment. Based on the international standards set forth in the World Anti-Doping Code (WADA Code) and the Japan Anti-Doping Code (JADA Code), they stipulate measures for doping prevention and appropriate responses to violations for all relevant parties.
Article 2 (Scope of Application)
These regulations apply to all individuals involved in the Federation’s activities, including registered athletes, coaches, team staff, officials, and any other personnel participating in the Federation’s competitive programs (hereinafter referred to as “Stakeholders”).
Article 3 (Definitions)
“Doping” as used in these regulations refers to any conduct defined as such by WADA and JADA.
Chapter 2: Anti-Doping Activities
Article 4 (Prohibition of Doping)
Stakeholders must not engage in any doping-related conduct, including the use, possession, supply, solicitation, or concealment of prohibited substances or methods. Violations of anti-doping rules will be handled with strict enforcement.
Article 5 (Education and Awareness)
The Federation shall regularly implement anti-doping education and awareness activities for stakeholders. In particular, designated representative athletes may be required to complete programs such as e-learning provided by JADA.
Article 6 (Therapeutic Use Exemptions – TUE)
In cases where the use of prohibited substances or methods is medically necessary, stakeholders must obtain approval through prescribed procedures in accordance with JADA’s Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) guidelines.
Chapter 3: Testing and Procedures
Article 7 (Obligation to Undergo Testing)
Athletes are required to comply sincerely with doping tests conducted by the Federation, JADA, or WADA, either in or out of competition. Refusal, obstruction, or evasion of testing will be considered a serious violation.
Article 8 (Sample Collection and Analysis)
Sample collection and analysis must be carried out by appropriate institutions designated by JADA and in accordance with international standards established by WADA.
Article 9 (Notification of Results and Responses)
Test results will be promptly communicated to the relevant stakeholder by JADA in coordination with the Federation, and necessary response measures will be taken.
Chapter 4: Violations and Sanctions
Article 10 (Recognition and Procedure of Violations)
If a doping rule violation is confirmed, the Federation shall carry out fact-finding and deliberation of disciplinary measures in accordance with procedures specified by JADA.
Article 11 (Sanctions)
Stakeholders found to be in violation may be subject to disciplinary actions including suspension from competition, disqualification, or annulment of results, based on JADA and WADA guidelines.
Article 12 (Public Disclosure of Violations)
When a violation is recognized, the Federation may disclose the details and the outcome of the sanction through its official website or other appropriate channels.
Chapter 5: Supplementary Provisions
Article 13 (Revision of Regulations)
These regulations may be reviewed and revised as necessary in response to updates to WADA or JADA regulations or changes in social circumstances.
Article 14 (Effective Date)
These regulations shall come into effect on January 1, 2025.