Dees’ Smith tested positive to drugs during AFL season

Shayne Hope | October 19, 2023

Melbourne player Joel Smith has been provisionally suspended after testing positive to cocaine during the AFL home-and-away season.

Smith was caught with the illicit drug in his system through an in-competition doping test.

The test was conducted by Sport Integrity Australia officials following the Demons’ win over Hawthorn in round 23.

The results of the test were not known until after the season had finished.

“(Smith) was notified by Sport Integrity Australia last week in relation to the finding,” the AFL said in a statement on Thursday.

“The AFL was made aware of the test results at the same time.

“The matter is now progressing in accordance with the (Australian Football Anti-Doping) Code, initially involving further investigation by Sport Integrity Australia supported by the AFL.

“In the interim Smith will not be part of Melbourne’s football program.

“The AFL is unable to make any further comment at this time.”

Smith played 14 games for Melbourne this season, including round 24 and the Demons’ two finals.