A 1989 National Youth Sports Coaches Association survey of about 1,200 youth aged 10-14 indicated that young athletes identify somewhat with their drug-using athlete models. Forty-three percent of respondents felt that steroids are not harmful if properly used, and 45% felt that steroids were likely to increase their athletic performance. Steroids can improve performance without immediate severe physical harm, and thus are attractive to athletes, who often suffer from anxiety connected with performance in their sport. Significant percentages said they knew where to obtain steroids and might use them to enhance performance; 42%, however, said they look to their coaches as role models and alcohol and drug educators. The influence of coaches on their players is known to be profound and long-lasting. Younger children are likely to be influenced even more than players at the high school and college level. It is important that coaches talk to their players about the deleterious effects of steroids. The coach also needs to explain that other drugs and alcohol do not offer escape from pressure, anxiety, or low self-esteem and, in fact, may lead to decreased performance. Effective use prevention can be based on knowledge and the development of appropriate attitudes and decision-making skills. (MSF)