Stop transfer portal bleeding

Hey coaches: Do you want to spend less time shopping the transfer portal? Crank up communication with your current athletes

In this frenetic transfer portal world, we learn daily about coaches and general managers who perpetually hustle to keep prized athletes at their schools. Poaching is prominent, and losing your leading scorer or dominant defensive threat could be one “promised” NIL deal away. (Not every promise is real, young athletes—vet carefully.)

What if coaches connected with athletes on a more personal level so they didn’t want to leave? With all of college athletics’ challenges, we know it’s tough. But much like the real world, consistent communication counts. Logistics show that making an athlete feel valued requires less effort than chasing a replacement for their roster spot. Will it require boosting their talents and a few dollars’ incentive in 2026? Yes. I’ve seen it happen.

While some athletes will chase big bucks offered by another school, others value stability. They like how you’ve helped them grow and feel a strong connection to your staff and school. When you clearly communicate and show appreciation for someone, maybe you won’t have to spend so much energy recruiting their immediate replacement.

Communication is key. Meet your athletes where they are and keep the lines open.

Let’s be honest—sometimes a move can help athletes (and you) take a career step forward — or maybe the collaboration just doesn’t work. That’s why you and your staff should be prepared for anything. But if you really want to keep an athlete on your roster, say so. Prove it. You might make that pressure cooker feel a little lighter, at least for now.

©2026 Gail Sideman, gpublicity.com; NILPublicity.com

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