Goodell Talks To Students About Effects Of Steroids
WOODLAWN, Md. (WJZ/AP) -- Putting a hit on steroids, before they hit home in high school. That challenge starts at the top with pro players.
Alex DeMetrick reports NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell wants student athletes to know it.
Making it in the NFL is a tough dream to break through. Strength and speed bring stardom, but steroids are a tempting shortcut.
"It has become more of an issue because you see pro athletes getting humongous, and you try being like them because they're your role models," said B.J. Durham, student athlete.
"You have dreams of playing in the National Football League. But no one wants to play or perform or compete against someone who cheats," said Troy Vincent, former NFL player.
That message was delivered to 700 student athletes from around the region at Woodlawn High School. It was emphasized by Roger Goodell.
The NFL commissioner made clear to high school players that steroid use is a potential career killer for pro players.
"You do not need to take these drugs. Play the game right. Play the game straight and follow the rules," said Goodell.
The warnings have been heard before, and many have already taken them to heart.
"It is talked about among teens, but we're trying to stay away because it's not healthy for our bodies," said Durham.
Goodell said the NFL needs to do more to keep banned substances out of the sport.
HGH use is prohibited by the NFL, but the league currently does not test for it. Goodell said he thinks players "recognize the importance of" adding HGH tests.
Besides steroid use, Goodell pledges to make the league more of a player on the issue of concussions among student athletes.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
