The National Federation of State High School Associations is often asked about drug testing as a method of responding to drug use among secondary school students, particularly among high school activity participants. Testing athletes for drug use has been occurring since the mid-1970's, when efforts to reduce drug use has really increased. These tests have been passed by the Supreme Court, but are left up to the school district as to whether or not administer the tests. In general, the tests, have been conducted infrequently and with varying degrees of success. Not only a violation of rights, but testing only for recreational drugs, and at a very high cost, makes many disbelievers of the system. .
What exactly is the point of these tests? High school sports have become very competitive among many schools. It is often more than just a game, and athletes find themselves training in some way - all year round. Many supporters say that there objective is to "level the playing field." This is an understandable explanation, however the idea becomes ridiculous because the tests only screen for recreational drugs (marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, etc.)and not steroids, or those that increase an athletes performance. The use of recreational drugs, would most likely have the opposite of effects, hindering their ability to play their best. Marijuana, the most frequently used drug among this age group slows reaction time, affects memory, and tires an individual out. The tests rarely test for all drugs, including tobacco and alcohol (the drugs most commonly used by adolescents). Since studies show that an estimated 500,000 to 600,000 teenagers in the United States have used steroids, it would make more sense to concentrate on tests toward these substances.
If the Supreme Court can pass this testing process, how are they blinded by the fact that this is a major violation of our constitutional rights.
