League Notes: Australian Anti-Doping Authority Tested Fewer Cyclists In '11 Than In '08

The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority said that "it is conducting fewer tests on cyclists because screening is more sophisticated and the government agency is no longer responsible for drug controls at Tour Down Under." The federal government-charged investigation into Cycling Australia "showed Australia's anti-doping agency conducted 260 fewer tests on cyclists" in '11 than in '08 (SYDNEY MORNING HERALD, 1/28). ... A pro-Palestinian people's activist group "has occupied the reception of UEFA's headquarters to protest Israel's hosting" of the European U21 Championship in June. About 40 protesters carrying banners and placards, some critical of UEFA President Michel Platini, "chanted slogans and engaged UEFA staff in debate" (AP, 1/25). ... The All India Football Federation has finalized 21 clubs "to participate in the 2nd division league" in '12-13. The top two clubs "will get a ticket to play in next edition's I-League." The clubs have been selected on the basis of the licensing process, which started on Nov. 21, when state associations "were asked to nominate clubs interested in participating in the league" (PTI, 1/25).