Mike Rodgers Apologizes for Misjudgement

Below is the press release that was issued by Mike Rodgers yesterday. Mike  will be serving a 9-month ban and is eligible to compete again in April 2012. DATE:  March 1, 2012 PRESS RELEASE Submitted by:  Mike Rodgers I apologize to my family and the track and field community around the world for my error in judgment related to my first anti-doping violation.   Methylhexaneamine, a mild stimulant, found in many energy drinks and supplements, was detected in my urine sample at the Lignano, Italy track and field competition in July, 2011.  I regret that my oversight in reviewing the USADA advisory notices in June 2011, may have contributed to my use of this energy drink substance one month later in July 2011. I have since learned that while acceptable in out-of-competition training, it is banned from in-competition.  Needless to say, I will be more diligent in staying abreast of this information. Throughout my career, I have always abided by the rules, and never knowingly intended to violate anti-doping regulations.  I have regularly complied with all out-of-competition and in-competition testing requirements. For example, I took an out-of competition blood test prior to my travel for European competition, as well as an in-competition blood test in Monaco  3 days after the Lignano, Italy competition.  In both instances, the blood tests were negative.  As recognized by the professional sports community, blood is the most accurate way of determining doping violations. This is offered as support that my anti-doping violation was an isolated incident, not a pattern of behavior. Needless to day, this has been both a humbling and enlightening experience.  I made a huge mistake and take full responsibility for my actions. The consequences to my track and field career have been enormous and significant, including forfeiting the opportunity to represent my team and country at the 2011 Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Daegu, Korea; inability to defend my 2011 Indoor American Championship Title at the 2012 Indoor American Track and Field Championships, and; loss of any possibility for competing in the 2012 Indoor World Track and Field Championships.  I have truly learned from my mistakes and am grateful for the chance to resume my track and field career effective April 19, 2012. Finally, I would like express my heartfelt appreciation to those individuals who have given me unwavering support during this ordeal. Thanks to my  Family,  attorney, Mr. David Griefinger; my coach, Mr. Darryl Woodson; and my sports management agent, Mr. Tony Campbell. --Mike Rodgers