IHSA approves random drug tests

Student athletes who compete in Illinois High School Association postseason events will be subject to random tests for performance-enhancing drugs starting next fall.

The IHSA board of directors unanimously approved the proposal today at a meeting in Bloomington. The group represents more than 750 Illinois high schools.

IHSA executive director Marty Hickman says the random testing will apply to students competing in IHSA state series. Examples of those include regionals, sectionals and state championships.

"With its action today, the Board has taken an important step toward protecting the integrity of the interscholastic experience for high school students in Illinois," Hickman said. "It is clear our membership understands the serious health risks associated with the use of performance-enhancing substances. Our new testing policy will protect the health of our youth and give students a reason to say no when the pressures mount to take a shortcut."

Final details, such as penalties for students who test positive, will be discussed next month.