Pubdate: Sun, 27 May 2001 Source: Winnipeg Free Press (CN MB) Copyright: 2001 Winnipeg Free Press Contact: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/502 Author: Kevin Rollason CENTRE ON DRUGS IN SPORTS GETS $350,000 FROM OTTAWA The federal government has given more than $350,000 to Winnipeg's Centre for Substance Use in Sport and Health to help spread its anti-doping message to athletes and other Canadians. Denis Coderre, federal secretary of state for amateur sport, said Friday it's the government's duty to do all it can to protect the integrity of sport and athletes' health. "Drug-free sport remains a priority of the government of Canada, both domestically and internationally," said Coderre, who is also an executive member of the World Anti-Doping Association, during the announcement at St. Boniface General Hospital. "When you talk about sports it's important to talk about values and fair play ... we need to send a clear message through schools that if you want to be a real champion you don't want to be a cheater." SUSH was founded last May by University of Manitoba professors Jonathan Geiger and Dean Kriellaars, and Winnipeg lawyer Howard Morry. The not-for-profit centre's goal is to conduct anti-doping research and educate Canadians on problems related to substance use. Kriellaars said SUSH will soon launch its Web site, www.SubstanceUse.com, to provide information to athletes and other Canadians about whether they can use certain substances and still compete. As well, Kriellaars said the Taking It program will provide education to athletes, coaches and parents on how to make informed decision making when considering substance use, while its Plan the Party program is designed to minimize excessive alcohol consumption by athletes. - --- MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager