The Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association recently passed a ruling allowing athletes to make one transfer during their high school career to another school without having to establish residency or sit out a year at the new school as has previously been the case.
Coaches and administrators have had mixed reactions to the new rule and VYPE spoke with Hilldale’s Hall of Fame boys’ basketball coach Gary Hendrix, now in his 37th year as a head coach, about his thoughts.
“I don’t know all of the details yet but from what I understand I’m not a fan of this ruling at all. I know the OSSAA is going to try to police recruiting but I’m afraid it’s going to become like the transfer portal in college. I’m afraid that kids that are unhappy where they are will start shopping themselves around to the schools and coaches who are in need of that kind of player which may lead to more enticements to recruit. I just don’t think that should be part of high school athletics. But in their defense, I think the OSSAA is trying to do something to preempt the state legislature from getting involved and mandating changes. I’m glad I’m towards the end of my coaching career and hopefully won’t be involved with this.”
