Transfer portal presents challenges to coaches in retaining players, not just recruiting them

College recruiting may start in the homes of the high school player but more than ever it never really stops once they are on campus. The ready opportunities for players to transfer makes it even more important for coaches around the country to devote plenty of time to them once they arrive, hoping to keep promising youngsters and starters alike out of the transfer portal. “I think the most important thing is relationships,” Alabama coach Nick Saban said in a familiar refrain among coaches.