Introduction The estimated prevalence of ED and/or disordered eating among athletes in range from 1% to 19% in males and 6% to 45% in females (Mancine et al., 2020) and is significantly higher than in non-athletes. Coaches play an integral role in an athlete's sporting life and are uniquely responsible for responding when an athlete is suspected of having issues related to ED or mental health in general (Moesch et al., 2018). Research shows that coaches often support the development of ED problems in their athletes, which can last for years (Moesch et al., 2018). This study aims to investigate coaches' perceptions of eating disorders in the context of sports, shedding light on their awareness, understanding, and strategies in dealing with athletes who may be at risk. The aim of the presentation is to raise awareness of the problem of ED in sport, results were obtained in project "Eating disorders in sport: Opening coaches` eyes" (EDS-OCE) supported by the European Commission. Methods A qualitative research with semi-structured interviews was employed. Participants were 20 experienced ski jumping and sports climbing coaches. Open-ended questions related to coaches` awareness and knowledge of eating disorders, experiences in identifying such issues within their athletes, as well as their attitudes and the strategies employed to support their athletes. Thematic analysis was applied to identify common patterns and unique perspectives in coaches' responses. Results The findings showed a spectrum of awareness among coaches regarding eating disorders in sports, ranging from limited recognition to a comprehensive understanding. Challenges in identifying and approaching athletes with eating disorders are evident, reflecting the complexity of the issue within the competitive sports environment. Discussion The results of this study emphasize the need for targeted coach education programs to enhance awareness and equip them with effective strategies for supporting athletes at risk of eating disorders. By addressing coaches' perceptions, behaviours, and knowledge gaps, it is possible to create a more supportive and informed environment for athletes, ultimately promoting their well-being and performance in sports.
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