Precipitating or Prohibiting Factor: Coaches' Perceptions of Their Role and Actions in Anti-doping 1 2

12 Coaches are frequently cited as potentially precipitating or preventing athletes' engagement in doping. 14 examine coaches' perceptions of their role and actions in athletes' anti-doping behaviour. Twenty-three 15 coaches (M=17, F =6) working with performance athletes in Scotland participated in semi-structured 16 interviews where topics related to doping and anti-doping were discussed. Thematic analysis, guided by 17 Schön's [1] role frame and reflective conversation concepts, was used to develop themes. Analysis led to 18 the development of four internal role frame themes: clean sport value, approach to preparation and 19 performance, responsibility to athletes, and knowledge; and five boundary role frame themes: 20 Scottish/British sporting culture, potential for benefit, prevalence of doping and testing, clarity of 21 responsibilities and consequences, and beyond coaches' control. The coaches' role frame supported an 22 anti-doping stance, however, it also presented a risk and was insufficient to ensure action. Analysis of 23 coaches' reflective conversations revealed the issues set by the coaches differed and influenced 24 subsequent actions and evaluations.