Sprinter Michael Rodgers banned for nine months after positive test

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) -- Former U.S. sprint champion Michael Rodgers has accepted a nine-month ban after testing positive for a stimulant.

Rodgers, who tested positive last July, is suspended through April 19 and will be eligible for the Olympic trials and a spot on the U.S. team in London.

After requesting arbitration, Rodgers took blame for his doping violation and provided evidence that he tested positive after using a supplement known as Jack3d, which has resulted in positive tests in a number of athletes, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency said in a news release.

USADA said Rodgers "provided inaccurate and misleading testimony" at his arbitration hearing, but before the panel could act on it the sprinter told the truth and agreed to his nine-month sanction.

Rodgers is the 2009 national champion in the 100 meters.