Indiana Statehouse Bill Would Change The IHSAA’s Transfer Rule

(1-14-25) The Indiana House will be discussing a bill that would drastically change the transfer rules in the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA).

Rep. Cory Criswell (Republican, District 54), the author of the bill —

“In Indiana, we have prioritized school choice to give families the freedom to pursue the best educational opportunities for their children. However, my colleagues and I are hearing growing concerns about student-athletes being denied eligibility by the IHSAA when transferring schools.

As a former teacher, coach and assistant athletic director, I’ve seen firsthand how important sports are to a student’s overall development, and I want to ensure this process is handled the right way,” Criswell said. “I’ve maintained a good relationship with the IHSAA and have been in constant contact with them throughout this process to make sure they have a seat at the table during these discussions. Together, we can find a solution that aligns with the values of school choice being fair to all student athletes.”

IHSAA Executive Director Paul Neidig discussing his thoughts on the issue being a bill in the House—

“I think forced is probably a strong word to use right now but we certainly have some friends in the House that believe we need to adjust the transfer rule. Some would rather see us do it than it become a state law and that I do agree with. But there are a lot of things to consider with what a more liberal transfer rule looks like.”

Indianapolis Star – Indiana Statehouse may force a change to IHSAA transfer eligibility rules

Over the years State legislators have become more active in state athletic associations operations across the US. Many hope to avoid the interference from the politicians at all costs.

RELATED:

It is no surprise that an issue like transfers would be an issue discussed at the high school level, most likely this comes due to the NCAA’s transfer portal that was instituted in the past several years that allows a basic ‘free agency‘ for member schools to recruit and bring in any amount of athletes.

Most state associations have made adjustments to transfer rules and have become very lenient in the enforcement of it due to numerous lawsuits brought by ‘unhappy‘ parents.