This study examined athletic trainers' perceptions regarding female athletes and eating disorders.   All athletic training directors at Division IA and IAA were surveyed during the fall of 2000.  Over 75% returned completed surveys.  Results indicated that most athletic trainers felt that it was extremely important to prevent eating disorders, that it was their professional role to help athletes with eating disorders, and that if they recognized the warning signs of eating disorders they could prevent the progression of the disorder.  However, only one in four felt confident that they could identify an athlete with an eating disorder.  The majority of athletic trainers reported that they had received little or no training on this topic.  Not surprisingly, most requested additional training.  In conclusion, future athletic training programs may benefit by offering eating disorder prevention programs to athletic training students.  Also, university athletic programs should provide trainers and coaches with ongoing prevention information.  In this manner, athletes with problems may be identified and receive the help that they need.