Dean Hardman - Doping Control Station Manager

I was seconded by my employer the RFL (the National Governing Body of Rugby League) to LOCOG for the duration of the Olympic Games to act as a Doping Control Station Manager for the Beach Volleyball at Horse Guards Parade. This role involved managing all aspects of doping control including the supervision of staff and ensuring that all samples were collected and stored in line with the very strict procedures laid down by the World Anti Doping Agency and the IOC. I was the main link between the doping control staff and the rest of the venue staff from other departments including cleaning, catering and waste (to make sure that the sample collection facility was clean), logistics (to make sure that samples were delivered to the lab on time), transport (to ensure athletes got back to the Village after doping control) and language services (to ensure that athletes who didn’t speak English understood the procedures adequately.

It was the hardest three weeks work I have ever worked, but most certainly the most unforgettable. The atmosphere every night at Horse Guards Parade was outstanding and my highlight would have to be holding a Gold medal won by one of the American women. Managing a team of 20 volunteers and dealing with international federations and athletes and being independently observed by the IOC was nerve wracking, but gave me so many opportunities for development. A life-changing experience.