Another NCAA Transfer Portal Negative Consequence
Before I get started here, I want to be clear that this short blog is not intended to be another pro or con take on the NCAA transfer portal rules or lack thereof. Instead, I am going to point out a negative consequence that showed up at the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Convention this week in Charlotte.
Anyone in attendance would quickly acknowledge that the attendance was significantly down at this important annual event for football coaches. The primary reason was obvious. The majority of the college football coaches were home working on the NCAA transfer portal.
Who could blame them. A college football coach’s livelihood now primarily depends on their success in the transfer portal. This extends from January 2 through January 16. How did the transfer portal collide head on with the AFCA convention? The AFCA convention is one of the most important dates for the leaders in the game of football.
The NCAA Transfer Portal Provided A Direct Hit On It’s Important Leaders
AFCA convention dates and location are often set years in advance, so obviously the NCAA set the portal transfer dates right on top of the AFCA convention this year. The NCAA is going to do what they have to do to correct the many problems with their calendar. That is not lost on anyone.
However; as a person who has been in and around this proud coaching profession for 44 years, I hope they don’t forget coaches when they consider reform. The AFCA Convention is an important event for football coaches young and old alike. Here are three quick examples and there are many more.
Three Examples Of How The Transfer Portal Dates Hurt AFCA Coaches
I personally know a close college football friend who received an award for 35 years of service as an AFCA member. While he was obviously honored to receive the award, he drove into Charlotte and back out the same day. Why? Because the college coaches who he knew were not there. They were at home working on the NCAA transfer portal. In my opinion, he deserved better.
The second example is on the other end of the spectrum. As a young football coach, I can remember being in awe as I walked by Joe Paterno, Bobby Bowden or Barry Switzer in the AFCA hallways. It made them and the other leaders of our game seem more real and my goals more achievable. A lot of young football coaches were deprived of that this year.
Finally, my understanding is that the AFCA Convention has been moved to February next year in Indianapolis. I certainly understand that the AFCA is trying to avoid colliding with the transfer portal again next year. However, the AFCA convention has always been a place where young football coaches could come to network. Some may even interview for a job. February is a little late for that in many cases.
So to wrap this up, I will join the chorus of so many others in pleading with the NCAA to show some true leadership and vision. Correct your calendar so that it make sense for the players and coaches who are at the core of why this game is so great to begin with.
