New transfer rule passes

Van Wert independent sports

COLUMBUS — Nearly two thirds of OHSAA member schools that cast ballots approved a referendum regarding student-athletes who transfer from one school to another.

Results released yesterday show 450 schools voted in favor of Issue 4B, while 244 voted against it.

The new rule, which goes into effect immediately, allows a transfer student who does not meet an exception to be eligible for the first half of the regular season in any sport. After that, a transfer student would be ineligible to participate during the remainder of the season, including an OHSAA sponsored postseason tournament.

Previously, transfers were required to sit out the first half of the season, but could be allowed to take part in the remainder of the season and the tournament.

One of the exceptions to the new transfer rule is when a family moves from one school district to another for a legitimate purpose.

The new rule, along with the Competitive Balance rule that went into effect in August is expected to level the playing field between public and private/parochial schools.