GHSA Stricter Transfer Rules Approved

(6-14-25) The Georgia High School Association (GHSA) is implementing stricter transfer rules that will render student-athletes ineligible for one year if they transfer to a third high school after the ninth grade. This change, expected to be finalized in July and effective August 1, aims to address concerns about athletic-driven transfers according to the GHSA. The new rules also require schools to verify bona fide moves with documentation like driver’s licenses, utility bills, and lease agreements.

Augusta-area football coaches react to new GHSA transfer restrictions

Evans head football coach Lee Hutto–

“I think it’s long overdue. I think it should’ve been done years ago. There’s no reason why a kid should be attending three, four high schools throughout their career. Something needs to be done. If you’re zoned to go to this school, you need to be at that school.”

The GHSA Board of Trustees met on June 4, 2025 at 8:30am at the GHSA Office in Thomaston Georgia.
Meeting Agenda
Meeting Minutes

Key changes to the GHSA transfer rules:

One-year ineligibility for third transfer: Athletes transferring to a third high school after the ninth grade will face a year of ineligibility.

Proof of bona fide move:

Schools must provide documentation like driver’s licenses, utility bills, and lease agreements to verify that a student’s move is genuine and not solely for athletic purposes.

Focus on athletic motives:

The GHSA is emphasizing that transfers should be driven by genuine residential changes, not athletic recruitment.

Potential for appeal:

Families can appeal if a student is denied eligibility.

These changes are intended to deter excessive transfers and maintain competitive balance among member schools. The GHSA is taking steps to ensure that transfers are not primarily driven by athletic considerations

Of the 13 GHSA Board of Trustees members who voted, the bylaw was passed by everyone except one member.

Portions of story AI assisted…