COLORADO SPRINGS, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- The United States Anti-Doping Agency confirmed Friday that Bryan Berard of the Columbus Blue Jackets has tested positive for a banned substance.
In a news release, the USADA said Berard has accepted a two-year suspension for a positive test for nandrolone, an anabolic steroid, in November. Nandrolone is banned by the International Olympic Committee.
Berard became eligible for testing after being invited to the U.S. Summer Olympic evaluation camp last August. He failed to make the team and will be ineligible for international competition for the next two years.
"It is disappointing to learn that Bryan Berard has tested positive for a banned substance during the USADA's random testing of potential Olympic athletes," players union executive director Ted Saskin said in a statement.
"Last summer, I made a mistake that has resulted in this suspension and while unintentional, I take full responsibility," Berard said in a statement on the team's Web site.
"He made a mistake, has acknowledged it and is committed to moving forward," said Columbus General Manager Doug MacLean.
The outcome of the test will not affect Berard's standing with the NHL. The suspension was first reported by TSN of Canada on Thursday night.
