Tiberias Fitness Coach Blamed as Scapegoat Amid Doping Scandal

The fitness coach of Ironi Tiberias, Shlomi Vedraru, has been made the scapegoat in the club's doping scandal, according to his colleagues who spoke out on Monday. Vedraru, who was suspended by the Anti-Doping Agency alongside players Eliran Hodeda and Chen Sol, insists he is not responsible for the doping violations. His friends claim that despite Vedraru's warnings against improper doping practices, the club's influential figure, Hodeda, ignored him and continued the illicit activities.

Vedraru reportedly checked the doping procedures and informed Chen Sol that the administration of doping substances was against regulations. However, Sol dismissed his concerns, saying he was handling the matter. Vedraru's colleagues emphasize that he was merely following orders and had no authority to approve doping, which was controlled by Hodeda, described as "all-powerful" within the club.

The controversy also raises questions about the roles of the players' union and the coaches' association, which have not intervened despite allegations that Hodeda pressured players like Ron Ungar to accept doping or face exclusion from matches. Vedraru was dismissed via a WhatsApp message three weeks after raising concerns, highlighting the club's disregard for his position. His friends argue that no fitness coach in Israel would be expected to authorize doping or even basic medical treatments like plasters or painkillers, which are typically handled by medical staff.

The doping scandal continues to overshadow Ironi Tiberias, with Vedraru caught in the middle as the club attempts to shift blame away from its leadership. The situation remains under investigation by the Anti-Doping Agency.