APA acknowledges that IPF Constitution Article 14 is a requirement, which as an IPF Affiliate we are required to abide by. Article 14 is set out in the Annexure (below).
Article 14 exists to ensure APA members are compliant with the WADA anti-doping requirements. This Statement is to provide clarification about Article 14 requirements for APA athletes, referees, coaches and officials.
APA is a member of IPF, which is a signatory to WADA’s World Anti-Doping Code. Accordingly, APA is required to maintain WADA-compliant anti-doping codes and practices.
Neither the IPF nor the APA retain jurisdiction over anyone who is NOT a member of the APA.
Once an athlete, coach, official, or referee becomes a member of the APA, they shall immediately be bound by all Rules and Regulations of the International Powerlifting Federation.
This Statement applies to all current members of the APA.
How does Article 14 apply to athletes/referees/coaches/officials competing ONLY at local APA competitions?
If you want to compete at a local level only, you will not be restricted from any cross federation participation. You are free to be a member of, and compete in competitions run by, other powerlifting federations.
How does Article 14 apply to athletes/referees/coaches/officials competing at APA National level or above?
If an APA National-level athlete, referee, coach or official takes part in any event run by any other powerlifting federation, they will be ineligible to compete at any APA or IPF National, Regional and International powerlifting competition for 12 months. Participation includes as an athlete, coach/handler or official. Spotting and loading is permitted as is participating in novice competitions.
Are there any additional APA requirements for athletes/referees/coaches/officials competing at National, Regional, or World Competitions?
Yes. If you wish to participate as an athlete, referee, coach or official in the Australian National Championships, Regional (Oceania or Commonwealths) or World Championships for APA, then, in addition to the Article 14 requirements outlined above, you also must not be a member of any other powerlifting organisation whilst you are a member of APA.
How will this rule be enforced?
Entrants to all APA National, Regional and World Championships will be required to declare on their entry form that they are not a member of any other powerlifting federation (ie. a non-WADA compliant sporting organisation).
Should it become apparent to the Australian Powerlifting Alliance that a false declaration has been made on a National Championship entry, this will be investigated by the APA Disciplinary Committee for potential sanction. Please note if you are not a member of another powerlifting federation and participate in their event this will also be investigated for potential sanction.
Overall, the responsibility to ensure compliance rests with each APA member. If you’re unsure, please email the Australian Powerlifting Alliance National Office here: info@powerliftingalliance.org.au
Annexure
Extract from Constitution of the International Powerlifting Federation
