Cape Breton University star soccer player suspended for doping
Ephedrine found in urine sample taken from Justin Maheu during competition in October
Cape Breton University's 2014-15 male athlete of the year has been suspended from playing soccer for 18 months for a doping infraction during a competition last October.
The banned or "specified" substance ephedrine was found in a urine sample from Justin Maheu, said the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport in a statement.
Ephredrine is an ingredient in some nasal sprays, but is also sold as a stimulant, or marketed as a fat burner or muscle builder.
It is widely available online.
Maheu, who is from Ottawa, is banned from participating "in any capacity with any sport signatory to the Canadian anti-doping program, including training with teammates," said the CCES.
CCES said Maheu admitted the doping violation when he learned the outcome of the October test.
The period of ineligibility for a first doping offence is normally two years; the CCES has not said why Maheu's suspension is shorter.
Calls to CBU's soccer coach and the director of athletics have not yet been returned.
