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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Australia Cans Coach

Compiled From Wire Services

Athletics Australia officials will drop former East German coach Ekkart Arbeit today following controversy over his links to systematic drug abuse and his work as a secret-police informer.

Australian Sports Minister Andrew Thomson, who demanded AA make a decision quickly when Arbeit was exposed as a Stasi informer this week, applauded the impending announcement.

Arbeit’s appointment as coach was disclosed in early October and sparked a huge outcry from Australian track and field coaches and athletes.

Secret police files since released in Berlin confirmed Arbeit was aware of the systematic doping of athletes during the 1980s. He denies the claims.