Decoding the Transfer Portal in College Soccer

More college soccer players than ever are swapping teams through the transfer portal – here’s why this trend is changing the game.

The transfer portal has completely changed college soccer in recent years. What started as a small ripple has turned into a constant wave, with thousands of players looking for new opportunities each season. Let me break down why so many soccer players are making moves.

What Is the Transfer Portal?

Think of the transfer portal as a big online database. When players want to switch schools, they put their name in this database. This tells coaches at other schools, “Sup, I’m available!”

Before the portal started in 2018, players needed their coach’s permission to transfer. They also had to sit out a whole year before playing at their new school.

Now, players can move much more easily. And, without skipping a beat.

Why Are More Soccer Players Transferring?

Player Power Has Grown

Players today have more control over their careers. If they’re not getting playing time or don’t like their team situation, they can find a better fit without major penalties.

The portal gives players a chance to restart their college career if things aren’t working out. This wasn’t possible just a few years ago.

NIL Deals Are Game-Changers

One of the biggest reasons for increased transfers is NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. Since 2021, college athletes can make money from sponsorships and endorsements.

Some players transfer to schools where they can get better NIL opportunities. A bench player at a big school might become a star at a smaller school – and earn more money from local businesses there.

Academic and Personal Reasons Matter Too

Not every transfer is about soccer or money. Many players move to find:

• Better academic programs for their major
• Schools closer to home
• Different campus environments
• Teams with playing styles that match their skills

What This Means for High School Recruits

What does this new age of transfers mean for upcoming recruits?

Fewer Spots for Freshmen

With more coaches filling roster spots with experienced transfers, there might be fewer opportunities for high school players. Some programs now save 5-10 roster spots each year specifically for transfers.

“As a high school player, you need to understand that coaches might offer fewer freshman scholarships than before,” explains Taylor Rodriguez, a recruiting coordinator. “Some positions might be filled almost entirely through the portal.”

More Pressure to Develop Early

High school players now face more pressure to stand out sooner. Coaches are looking for recruits who can contribute early rather than projects who need several years to develop.

“The days of coaches taking chances on players with raw potential are fading,” Rodriguez adds. “They want players who are ready to compete with transfers for playing time from day one.”

New Recruiting Strategy Needed

Ambitious high school players need to adjust their approach. Many now focus on finding programs that have a history of developing freshmen rather than relying heavily on transfers. Others look for schools with specific positional needs that transfers can’t fill.

How This Changes Recruiting

Coaches have completely changed how they build teams. Instead of focusing mainly on high school players, many coaches now fill half their roster spots with transfers.

Bringing in a junior or senior transfer gives you someone who’s already played college soccer. They can help right away, while freshmen often need time to adjust.

Here’s What I Would Do…

If you are in high school and don’t want to get overlooked by the transfer portal, here’s my recommendations:

1. Play at the Highest Level Club Soccer as You Can: By playing in MLS NEXT, ECNL, Girls Academy, USL, you can show coaches and scouts that you are able to compete with the best of the best.
2. Show Yourself Off: Make sure to create a 3-5 minute highlight reel of your season. Have a mixed bag (attacking, defense, IQ, etc.)
3. Be Proactive: Email coaches often. Don’t be afraid to follow up multiple times. They are busy and will appreciate it.

What This Means for College Soccer’s Future

The transfer portal has made college soccer more unpredictable. Teams can change dramatically from one season to the next as players move around.

This creates excitement but also challenges for everyone. Team chemistry can be harder to build when rosters change so much. Programs that develop players over four years might lose them just as they’re reaching their peak. And, high school aged players could be overlooked for more mature players.

One thing is clear: the transfer portal is here to stay in college soccer. Players will keep seeking better opportunities, and coaches will keep adapting to this new landscape.