Ten Questions To Ask Before Transferring Schools
High School athletes now have more freedom of movement than ever before. Still, the decision to transfer schools is never an easy one. Too often, we make decisions based on going towards what is easiest, shiniest or most known.
During times of transition it is critical that we perform proper due diligence in order to make the best decision for your athlete’s future.
Below are some questions to ask Coaches before making the decision to transfer.
Where does my athlete fit on your current depth chart?
This is a depth chart question. Here you want to find out how many other players on the team play the same position(s) as your athlete. You want to be in the top two of your desired position. Having less than four other athletes total in your desired position is preferable.
2. What specific skill sets does your team currently lack or could use more of? What skill sets do you have plenty of, if any?
This is a question of need versus oversaturation. If your athlete is a slasher/rebounder and they have lots of those, perhaps the coach is needing shooting/ball-handling, or leadership/resilience. Prioritize places where your athlete’s skills stand out.
3. How many players do you typically like to play per game?
This question relates to player usage. You want to get a feel for whether the coach plays lots of players (8+) or just a few (>8). Pros and cons exist for each type, depending on where your athlete lands on the depth chart.
4. How do you prioritize and organize skill development versus team development?
Many coaches don’t prioritize skill development, meaning your athlete will have the responsibility to improve individually on his/her own. This is so you know what the expectations are going in.
5. How would you describe your sideline energy during games?
This question relates to sideline demeanor. Whether a coach is demanding and demonstrative or laid back and relaxed during games can positively or negatively affect your athlete based on how they respond to these environments.
6. What traits do you like to see from your players, and what traits frustrate you most?
Soft-skills question. The coach's answer here will give you an idea of which traits the coach places the most priority on and if they align with what your child brings or can possibly adapt.
7. Given that you have the right players to implement your preferred style, what style of play do you prefer most?
This question relates to the speed of play. Up-tempo teams will guard full-court and attempt more shots per game, which results in more opportunities. Teams that play slower will implement more passing and have greater structure. Go where the environment suits your athlete’s style of play.
8. What types of actions typically trigger you to sub a player out during a game?
This question helps to identify the Coach’s style and what things he/she prioritizes (i.e.) Missed defensive assignments, lack of attention to game plan, forced shots.
9. What does your off-season program consist of?
Here you want to make sure the Coach has a substantial plan during the off-season. This should consist of daily summer skills/strength workouts, team camps and pickup games.
10. Do you do anything to promote players for college opportunities?
This is a cherry on top. Not all coaches help athletes get college offers, but it helps to know up front.
