squad training for Bermuda's International Youth tournament after failing a drug test for marijuana have seen their hopes dashed again.

After having quietly been reinstated to the squad, now training for the CONCACAF qualifying tournament in Trinidad and Tobago which starts this Sunday, the trio have yet again been dismissed.

According to sources, the three players -- who have never been named by the BFA -- passed a recent test for drugs and were consequently under the impression that they would be part of the squad travelling to the Caribbean.

But they have now been told that won't be the case and certain members of the players' families are reportedly upset with the governing body for inviting the players back but then using the drugs test as reason for their omission.

Some feel that by reinstating the trio, the BFA gave a clear indication that the players would be considered for the trip to Trinidad.

"It's hard to understand the BFA's policy. What message are they sending our youngsters,'' said one parent, who asked to remain anonymous.

Questioned about the controversy early yesterday, both BFA president Neville Tyrrell and General Secretary David Sabir were reluctant to discuss the matter in detail. But they later issued a press release, explaining their decision.

Asked whether the players had been selected, Sabir referred to the release, adding: "No they are not going -- see where it says any player that failed the drug test prior to our Youth Tournament is not eligible to represent Bermuda in Trinidad.'' Asked why the players were brought back into the squad in the first place and not banned for any specific period, Sabir said: "The executive committee has decided that our policy is not about passing a drug test, but rather requires a positive change in one's lifestyle regarding the use of drugs.'' However, it was clear that the two top BFA officers, anxious to restore faith in the association after the turmoil of the Miami Seven affair, were not keen to discuss matters relating to drugs, fearing it would lead to negative exposure which might jeopardise corporate sponsorship.

The business sector have recently rallied behind Tyrrell and his new executives, raising more than $100,000 to support the Under-17 team and their international commitments.

The BFA's full statement read as follows: "The BFA has taken the opportunity to revitalise its international programme.

This opportunity was given in large part to the kind generosity and overwhelming sponsorship from Bermuda's corporate community. As a result of this corporate sponsorship, the BFA was able to stage its first International Youth Soccer Tournament. Part of the sponsorship package was the plan to send the BFA's Under-17 team to Trinidad and Tobago for participation in the CONCACAF qualifying tournament on August 18-31.

"In 1995 the affiliates of the BFA voted in favour of a drug policy that governs all players involved in the National Programme. Essentially this policy, which is known as the Athlete's Assistance Programme, was instituted for the first time prior to our youth tournament. The decision taken was that players in violation of this policy were not allowed to participate in our tournament.

"Just prior to the tournament, the BFA held a series of presentations and informal meetings regarding our position on drug mis-use by players. It was our position that our tournament was in preparation for the CONCACAF competitions and that we would have a drug-free event. Hence, those players in violation of the BFA's policy did not participate.

"Recognising our responsibility to the football family, our corporate sponsors and the community, the BFA's executive committee met to approve the squad from which the final team will be selected to represent Bermuda in Trinidad. The committee decided that two very necessary criteria would be used: "1. All players must undergo and test negative to a drug screening; 2. Any player that failed the drug test prior to our youth tournament would not be eligible to represent Bermuda in Trinidad.

"Other criteria for selection are the decisions of the head coach in accordance with the policies of the BFA.

"We are aware that it is required for our policy that any player identified as having a problem with drugs must undergo professional counselling and based on the assessment by the counsellor, be recommended for inclusion into our national programme. For the record the executive committee have decided that our policy is not about passing a drug test, but rather requires a positive change in one's lifestyles regarding the mis-use of drugs.

"We must add that our policy does not speak of exclusion from the programme.

It is up to the player to demonstrate his desire to be involved. Involvement comes via the commitment to a drug-free lifestyle.

"The BFA is determined to be as proactive as possible regarding the issue of a drug-free policy. Such a position may not be embraced by all but at the end of the day, our goal is to do whatever is best for football.

"The BFA has a responsibility to those players that have decided not to use drugs in their life. We have a responsibility to our sponsors and the community. We have left the door of opportunity open to those players who were not eligible for selection to our team. The criteria for re-selection has been documented in our policy. It is up to the individual to show that a drug-free lifestyle is important enough in order to earn the right to represent Bermuda.'' RARIN' TO GO -- Members of Bermuda's youth soccer squad were in high spirits as they finalised their preparation last night for this week's trip to Trinidad.