Early data suggests new WIAA freebie transfer rule isn't creating mass exodus of movement

In presentation at athletic directors' convention in April, WIAA officials reveal reported total of athletic-based transfers at 2,422 statewide

During the 2025-26 school year, 500 student-athletes utilized the new WIAA one-time transfer waiver and sat out the required 40 percent of games to play for their new school. (Lauren Smith / VarsityWA)

After the WIAA representative assembly passed an amendment in 2025 that allowed student-athletes a one-time, no-explanation transfer to another school with lesser penalty — sitting out 40 percent of a sport’s varsity games — the hope was that while it loosened restrictions, it wouldn’t create a free-for-all transfer portal.

Based on preliminary data shared by WIAA staff at the annual Washington Secondary School Athletic Administrations Association (WSSAAA) convention in Kennewick, that isn’t happening — at least in the first year.