Coaches Express Growing Concerns Over High School Transfers

As the high school football season approaches, the conversation remains dominated by a familiar issue: high school transfers. Coaches across the state are voicing their frustrations and concerns over the increasing number of student-athlete transfers and the lack of effective regulation.

Last week, as part of AL.com's four-part anonymous coaches survey series, a story highlighted the concerns surrounding summer transfers and the uncertainty about future regulations. This issue took center stage once again during the Mobile County High School Football Media Days for the second consecutive year.

Veteran coach David Faulkner, who has led programs at Fairhope, Enterprise, and now McGill-Toolen, shared his perspective: "Parents and children have the right to attend a school where they feel they belong. The real issue is whether schools are adhering to the transfer process rules. Are there instances of over-assistance or non-genuine moves? That’s for the Association to address. At McGill, we want players who are committed to our team every Friday night."

Many coaches believe that some schools are not following the rules, leading to widespread frustration. St. Paul's head coach Ham Barnett, who has seen several players transfer to other schools on the Gulf Coast, expressed his growing irritation: "High school football has lost its amateur spirit. Leaders need to make hard decisions and enforce rules."

The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) recently underwent leadership changes, with Heath Harmon stepping in as the new executive director. While Harmon is responsible for enforcing existing rules, many, like Barnett, are skeptical about any significant changes being made.

"It's disheartening," Barnett said. "Do I think change will happen? No, I don’t have confidence in it."

Erik Speakman, the new head coach at Faith Academy, also commented on the challenges of transfers: "As a private Christian school, we do accept transfers, but it's tough when players leave after we’ve invested time in them throughout spring and summer."

Parents naturally want the best for their children, but the legality of some transfers, especially to certain schools, remains a contentious issue. While the topic may be tiresome, it’s an ongoing problem that overshadows what should be an exciting time of year.

The transfer trend reflects what’s happening at the collegiate level, where the NCAA transfer portal sees record activity. This trickle-down effect is leaving high school coaches feeling worn down and frustrated, which is a worrying sign for the profession.

Coaches and teachers have a profound impact on young people, as seen over the past 35 years. Their influence is invaluable, and it’s crucial to address these challenges to preserve the integrity and spirit of high school sports.