There are many reasons a high school athlete may decommit from their college of choice–everything from another school offering more scholarship money, a sudden influx of other commits that will create competition, or a drastic change in the program, such as a scandal or a coach being fired. Regardless of the reason, it is requisite to be respectful and avoid burning bridges, just like in the recruiting process, as college coaches have networks and communicate often. 

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Communicate with the program first 

It is incredibly inappropriate to decommit without first letting the coach and recruiting coordinator know. Think about it as the equivalent of putting in your two weeks' notice before quitting a job. The coaches also have a job to do, and they need to fill out an entire roster, some as big as 80-90 athletes, so if you decommit unexpectedly and they find out from social media that shows a lack of respect and thoughtfulness on your end. 

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Have a conversation with the coach in person. Make sure to explain the reasons to transfer respectfully. It is important to remember that this coach allowed you to be on their team, and in a drastic turn of events in which you can come back to the program, keep that door open. If the coach wants you in the program, you can haggle for more scholarship money, if you play an equivalency sport. Use your leverage to your advantage. 

Post your decommitment announcement with proper digital etiquette (if you post about it at all)

Many high-profile high school athletes choose to post when they decommit from a school. There are two main elements that I have found in each one of these posts when done effectively: first, the posts almost always start with giving thanks to the coaches and program they were previously committed to. Second, the post announces that they are opening back up their recruitment or where they are now committed to. An example of what not to do would be a post disparaging the program on social media using vulgarities and harsh language. That would prevent you from getting any new offers and tarnish your digital footprint. 

Have another school lined up to commit to or have a plan of attack 

Do not decommit recklessly. It is imperative to know what your next steps are going to be. If you immediately have another school to go to, that is great, and you will simply de-commit them and commit to a new school that you already have an offer from. If you are still determining where you want to go to school, ensure there are other opportunities for you to play at the collegiate level. Those aren't guaranteed if you only have one chance and then decommit hoping to get more offers. That is why it is so important not to burn bridges. 

Decommitting can be stressful, so staying patient and having a plan of attack is essential. Make sure to go through the process with the utmost respect for all the programs you encounter. 

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* Originally published on December 2, 2022, by William Calhoun