WIAA Transfer Rules: Impact on IKE
Eisenhower athletics will be seeing many new faces in the upcoming seasons, thanks to a recent statewide rule change on eligibility for transfer students. As of May, transfer students are able to play 60 percent of the maximum games in their sport season and have to sit out the first 40 percent. A student can only use this once, and the transfer has to occur in between school years. This is one of the most significant eligibility changes in recent years and has been a common topic of discussion.
Previously, athletes were ineligible to play at the varsity level for a whole year if they transferred schools. There are very rare exceptions of students appealing this rule with claims of hardship and unique circumstances, but this is a long process that involves numerous interviews and hearings with members of the WIAA. For most student-athletes, transferring schools meant missing a full year of competition. With only four seasons of high school sports, it becomes an impossible decision for students and families wanting better opportunities. The goal of this change in eligibility was to allow Washington state students to have as many opportunities as possible, without creating a “transfer portal” as the NCAA currently has. This new rule has caused lots of change for local sports, especially here at Eisenhower, where student athletes are eager to take advantage of this new opportunity.
Over the summer, our volleyball team in particular has welcomed three new players, who will be eligible to compete in their first game on the 27th against the Wenatchee Panthers. All three of these players transferred from local schools, undoubtedly bringing a new level of competition and rivalry to future games. Varsity volleyball coach Ashlee Nelson says she’s excited to see what this new rule brings to the team. She also states that the team's new players are already making a difference in energy and intensity during practices. The new rule provides an opportunity for students to be able to find a school that fits them best, without having to risk a year without the sport they love. While there has been a lot of discourse on the fairness of the rule change, it is undeniable that it will bring a new element of competition to the Big Nine.
