The pressures that come with being a college athlete can be intense. A tough season, a demanding coach, or dealing with injuries can make any athlete contemplate transferring to another school. However, sticking with your current team and institution can offer numerous benefits that might not be immediately apparent. I experienced a lot of intense, stressful and unpleasant moments during my college career as a DI athlete, and there were a few moments where I thought it was best for me to transfer and start fresh at a new school. After really going through my options, I decided to stay and finish out my career at one place. Below are seven reasons why staying put can be the best decision for your athletic and personal development.
7 Reasons Not to Transfer as an Athlete
1. Deepening Team Bonds and Loyalty. Athletic teams thrive on camaraderie and trust. By choosing to stay, you demonstrate loyalty and commitment to your teammates. These relationships often go beyond the field or court, providing a strong support network that can help you through difficult times as you begin working, get married, start families, and other big life events. The bond you share with your teammates, built through shared struggles and triumphs, can be one of the most rewarding aspects of your college experience.
2. Academic and Institutional Stability. Transferring can disrupt your academic progress and your relationship with the institution. Staying at your current school allows you to maintain consistency in your academic pursuits, which is crucial for your educational success. Building strong relationships with professors, academic advisors, and peers can enhance your learning experience and provide a stable support system. Additionally, you continue to benefit from any scholarships or financial aid packages that might be tied to your current institution.
3. Opportunities for Leadership and Growth. Sticking with your current team can open doors to leadership opportunities. As you gain more experience, you may find yourself in a position to mentor younger teammates, influence team culture, and lead by example. These leadership roles can be incredibly fulfilling and can also enhance your resume. Showing that you stayed and led through adversity can be a powerful testament to your character when pursuing future career opportunities, both within and outside of sports.
4. Avoiding the Uncertainties of Transferring. If you decide to transfer to another college or university, that move might come with uncertainties. You may face eligibility issues, need to adjust to a new academic environment, or deal with a different coaching style and team dynamics. There is no guarantee that the new situation will be better than the current one. By staying, you avoid these potential pitfalls and can focus on improving your current situation. The phrase that comes to my mind is “better the devil you know, than the devil you don’t“. You truly never know what you’ll experience when you leave, but you do know the current pro’s and con’s of your current academic and athletic environment.
5. Personal and Athletic Development. Every athlete faces hardships; it’s a part of the journey. Staying at your current institution allows you to work through these challenges with the support of those who already know you and your capabilities. Overcoming adversity can significantly contribute to your development as an athlete. You have the chance to refine your skills, learn from your mistakes, and ultimately emerge stronger. This journey can be incredibly rewarding and can shape you into a more well-rounded athlete.
6. Leaving a Legacy. By choosing not to transfer and instead contribute positively to your team and institution, you have the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy. Your perseverance can inspire future athletes and set a standard for dedication and resilience. This legacy is something you can be proud of and can be a significant part of your identity long after you’ve left the sport.
7. Building Resilience and Character. Facing and overcoming challenges is a critical part of personal growth. Staying at your current college or university, even when the going gets tough, helps build resilience. This might sound really corny or ‘whack’ as my dad might say, but learning to navigate a tough coach, a losing season, or recovering from an injury can teach you valuable life skills such as perseverance, adaptability, and mental toughness. In the words of Head Coach Kara Lawson, by learning to ‘handle hard better‘ in school, I’ve been able to face many obstacles in life better than if I had not built up my resilience in school.
While transferring may seem like a tempting solution to the challenges you’re facing, there are numerous benefits to staying at your current college or university as an athlete. I also have to express that staying put might not be the right decision for you- and that’s okay! Every athlete’s experience is different and it’s crucial for you to evaluate what works best for your situation. If you do decide to transfer schools, make sure you’re making the best move for you. Building resilience, maintaining academic stability, seizing leadership opportunities, avoiding the uncertainties of transferring, and fostering athletic development are all compelling reasons to stay the course. The decision to remain can ultimately lead to a richer, more fulfilling college experience and prepare you for success in all areas of life.