High school athletes listen about steroid dangers, By: Danielle Pepe

LEE COUNTY: A national survey has been released that indicates close to four percent of high school students have used steroids. To address the problem, hundreds of high school football players and coaches were invited to Fort Myers High to hear just how dangerous steroids can be.

It is possible for steroid use and abuse to happen in Southwest Florida. That is why steroid use speaker Don Hooton traveled from Texas to speak to local high school athletes tonight.

Three years ago Hooton’s youngest son took his own life after using steroids.

"Everyone that looked at our case says it is highly likely that the depression was caused by Taylor's steroid use and later his withdrawal from steroid usage," said Hooton.

His story silenced the teenagers.

"It does touch you when someone directly knows someone like family and stuff. It's so sad and it actually helps me to not use it," said Tito Torres of Cypress Lake High School.

The emphasis of steroid use has predominantly been on male sports like football and baseball. But it may surprise you to know that freshman girls are leading the nation in steroid use.

Many coaches who attended the meeting were surprised to hear that as well.

"They can use steroids to slim down and get that six-pack look without doing the sit ups," said Hooton.

Another seminar will be held Wednesday that will also focus on steroid use. It will be open to parents and family members of athletes.