The Transfer Portal Temptation: Don’t Rush To Press the Eject Button

Dear Coach Bryant:

My son is a freshman ice hockey player in college, and he’s not seeing much time on the ice. He’s already talking about entering the transfer portal because he thinks he’ll get more opportunities elsewhere. I’m worried he’s making a rash decision without giving it enough time to adjust to the program. What advice do you have for student-athletes considering a transfer, and how can I help him see the bigger picture?

Worried in Wichita

Dear Worried:

The transfer portal has made it easier than ever for student-athletes to change schools when things aren’t going their way. While the option can be a valuable lifeline in certain situations, it’s important to recognize that transferring isn’t always the best solution. Struggles, setbacks, and challenges are part of every athlete’s journey, and how your child responds to those moments shapes their character, resilience, and future success. Before your child hits the “eject” button, help them consider these key reasons why staying the course could be the better path:

Struggles Build Strength

Adversity often leads to the greatest growth. Whether it’s less playing time, a difficult coach, or academic stress, these challenges provide opportunities to develop grit and perseverance—qualities that will serve athletes long after their college careers. 

Transferring Is Hard and Expensive 

Switching schools may seem like a fresh start, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Student-athletes have to build new relationships, adjust to a different team culture, and navigate new academic and athletic systems. Add to that that the average financial cost of transferring from one college to another is $14,207, it’s clear that transferring isn’t a decision to take lightly.

Four-Year Commitments Yield the Most Rewarding Experiences 

The athletes who stick it out for four years often look back on their college experience with the most pride and fulfillment. They form deep, lasting relationships, grow with their teammates, and fully immerse themselves in the program’s culture. The connections built through college sports often become the most valuable source of networking referrals, opening doors to career opportunities long after their playing days are over.

Commitment actually does means something 

In an era where instant gratification often takes precedence, loyalty and perseverance can feel like fading values. Committing to a team and a program—through the highs and lows—is a powerful statement of character and integrity but also provides valuable experiences to share when interviewing for a job. Employers appreciate candidates who demonstrate commitment, resilience, and the ability to work through challenges—qualities that staying with a team can help develop.

The Reality

While the transfer portal offers student-athletes a quick escape from tough situations, it’s not always the right solution. The reality is that every athlete will face challenges—whether it’s limited playing time, a tough coach, or balancing academics and sports. These are not signs to give up; they’re opportunities to grow stronger, both on and off the field. Reminder your child that commitment, loyalty, and perseverance are incredibly important values, and they’ll serve him far beyond his athletic career.  And while yes, transferring might solve one issue, it often creates new challenges: starting over, building relationships from scratch, and adapting to a new environment.  So before your child makes a move, encourage him to ask himself: What could I gain by staying and growing through this experience?