Entering the college soccer transfer portal is a big deal. You surrender your athletic scholarship and find yourself at the mercy of your coach should you decide to stay put. It’s crucial to consider these risks and weigh up whether they are worth taking. Yet, if you’re unhappy at your current school and feel you need a change of scenery, entering the portal could be the right move.
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College Soccer Transfer Portal Timeline
The college soccer transfer portal is only open for a limited time, especially for Division I players. There are two windows: one straight after the fall season and another at the end of the spring. For the 2023/24 academic year, the fall window opened on November 13th and 20th, respectively, for women’s and men’s soccer. Both windows lasted for a month, closing on the 12th and 19th of December. There is a shorter spring window for students seeking to transfer, from April 30th to May 15th.
These short windows mean you must maximize your time by entering the portal when it opens. Entering the portal requires commitment. You can’t suddenly decide to enter the portal in December and expect to find your desired destination. You need to make up your mind during the season to plan ahead – start making your soccer recruiting video and prepare your soccer resume.
Making a decision
Making decisions is tough. Leaving all your friends and newfound comfort zone – even tougher. Working up the courage to tell your coach you want to leave, knowing it won’t go down well – mortifying.
Assess your situation by writing a list of what you aim to accomplish in your college career. These priorities will differ individually, but it’s crucial to focus on your own. If you’re miserable due to a severe lack of playing time or a damaged relationship with your coach, then transferring is worth considering.
Regardless of your priority, it is important to make the most of your college experience – you only get one. Leaving your comfort zone requires bravery. Consult family and friends outside your current bubble to gain a fresh view of the situation.
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Target Schools
The transfer portal lets coaches see you’re available, but you shouldn’t rely solely on it to get your name out to coaches. Reach out to coaches through your contacts and social media – no specific way works for everyone.
It is crucial that you research schools that suit you best from an academic standpoint, as it would be idiotic to attend a school that doesn’t have your major. Beyond that, be realistic and target schools where you genuinely believe you have a realistic chance of playing.
Targeting realistic schools will stand you in the right stead regarding getting personalized responses instead of generic ID camp information. Once you’ve picked out 5-10 schools that fit your needs, reach out to them via email. Make sure to include your key information and your soccer recruiting video.
Be Selfish
I found myself physically shaking as I rehearsed what I was going to say. I was told I had “used” my coach for seeking a transfer after a solitary season. Yet, the same logic didn’t apply to him cutting players’ scholarships in the same timeframe. Coaches will often attempt to guilt-trip you into doing what they want you to do. This can be uncomfortable to deal with but try to focus on the best outcome for yourself. You come first.
Most importantly, consider all the risks when declaring your intention to transfer. It is not a decision that should be taken lightly, but it is often necessary to improve your collegiate experience. Give yourself the best possible chance of success by following the tips above regarding the college soccer transfer portal.
Want expert guidance on your U.S. college recruitment journey? Email me at joseph@collegesoccerinsight.com or message me on Instagram.
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