By Singapore Swimming Association

Singapore, Wednesday, September 28, 2011 — The Singapore Swimming Association (SSA) regrets the incident involving swimmer Jeffrey Su; his coach, Gary Tan and his club, Swimfast Aquatic Club.

The Executive Committee of SSA has convened a Disciplinary Committee hearing and has made the decision to hand out the appropriate actions to the parties involved:

1. Jeffrey Su will be banned from taking part in any SSA-sanctioned events for two years.

2. Gary Tan will serve a one-year suspension from consideration for national coach accreditation.

3. Swimfast Aquatic Club will serve a two month suspension from participating in SSA-sanctioned events. This suspension will apply only to the Club itself and shall not apply to any of its swimmers, who will be eligible to represent Singapore at the FINA/Arena Swimming World Cup events as well as the SEA Games.

In addition, during this suspension SSA Exco has expressly waived Article 12 of the SSA Constitution in respect of the swimmers from Swimfast Aquatic Club, thereby permitting these swimmers to take part in any and all SSA-sanctioned events as “unattached” swimmers.

SSA President, Mr Jeffrey Leow, said, “While we recognise the contribution of Jeffrey, Gary and Swimfast to the Singapore Aquatics community, it is important that they are accountable for this error in judgment and be mindful that the successful collaboration with MINDEF on the SAF Sportsman’s Scheme requires diligence, due care and responsibility.

We believe in the discipline and professionalism among all our athletes and officials, and take a serious view of any breach of conduct. We will use this opportunity to improve and ensure that this one-off incident will not occur again.”

Ed’s note: Jeffrey Su, 24, failed to turn up for 11 physiotherapy and recovery sessions in 2010. He was then serving his National Service and was given time off under the Singapore Armed Forces Sportsman Scheme.