In an interview Matthew Kemp, assistant soccer coach at Illinois Wesleyan University, was asked for his thoughts on athletes transferring. Kemp isn't opposed to athletes deciding to switch schools but emphasized that it should be a well thought-out decision. “It's gotta be for the right reasons,” he said. “It can't just be because of playing time.” But what are some good (and not-so-good) reasons to pack your bags and move to another campus?

Bad Reason: Playing Time

Let's get the negatives out of the way early. Like Coach Kemp said, playing time in and of itself isn't a good reason to transfer. If the only reason you want to transfer is playing time, and you haven't fought and worked for the starting role through adversity, your situation is likely not going to change anywhere else. If you have done everything in your power and have been working your hardest and after a couple of years go by, you still aren't even being given the chance to show what you can do, then you can consider transferring. However, if it's just been your first year, and you didn't play so you just want to go, it's worth it to stick around a little longer.

Related: 3 Pros and Cons of Transferring as a College Athlete

Good Reason: Academics

With that said, there are plenty of reasons that are the “right” reasons to transfer. Mainly the academics. If your academics aren't going well and especially if the school you are at doesn't have the major you want, you should consider transferring. You are in college to get a degree to set your future up and that should be your priority.

Good Reason: You Feel Deceived

In addition, the system you find yourself in might not be right for you. Maybe you were told some false information or the coach changed or the coach decided to change the playing style being used. If the system you are in athletically is not made in a way that fits your style, it can impact how you are playing and your performance. If one of the big reasons you decided on the school was the coach and then the coach is fired or decides to leave, that can be a big factor in wanting to transfer. However, make sure you give the new coach a chance.

Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits

Good Reason: The Campus

The school itself might be the reason you want to transfer and it is a valid reason. If it  wasn't what you expected and you don't like the school, you might be considering transferring. Maybe it is far away from home and you need to be closer to home. It might be that you just haven't clicked with the people at the school and you aren't enjoying your time. Whatever the case, you do need to like the school you are at to be happy, whether you're an athlete or not.

There are plenty of reasons to transfer. However, if you truly are considering it, make sure it is for the right reasons. And if you are unsure about transferring, talk to the ones close to you. Your close friends and family can give you great advice and lead you in the right direction.

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* Originally published on October 20, 2022, by Scott Abramson