The Transfer Portal: How to Navigate It Without Burning Bridges or Making Emotion-Driven Mistakes

The Transfer Portal: How to Navigate It Without Burning Bridges or Making Emotion-Driven Mistakes

In this episode of Under the Hat, Kara and Coach Sam tackle one of the most misunderstood — and most emotional — topics in college volleyball: transferring. This is not a “jump in the portal” pep talk. It's the opposite. We walk through: * Why the fall semester is NOT enough time to judge a fit * Emotional triggers that mislead athletes (comparison, homesickness, frustration) * Coaching changes and when they do or don't justify transferring * How to request and handle tough conversations with your coach * What a mature, non-victim conversation actually sounds like * Academic & financial realities families overlook * What film you need (and why club footage won't cut it) * How coaches evaluate transfers — including the red flags they look for * Why the portal window is short, fast, and more stressful than the original recruiting journey If you're considering the transfer portal, already in it, or supporting an athlete who's struggling, this episode will help you slow down, reflect, and make decisions rooted in clarity — not panic.

Under the Hat | Player of the Year Spotlight: Amari Frazier

In this episode of the Under the Hat Player of the Year Spotlight Series, we're joined by Amari Frazier — a 6'3" Class of 2028 outside hitter/right side from Xavier College Prep, one of Arizona's top high school programs. Amari talks about what it's like being part of a state title–contending team, her leadership growth from freshman to sophomore year, and how her high school squad bonds over sisterhood, food, and competitive fire. She also shares her shift from basketball to volleyball, her love for the club grind with Arizona Storm, and what she's focused on improving heading into the new season. We go deep on: * The Durango Classic turning point * Team bonding through food (mac & cheese and pineapple, anyone?) * Her transition into leadership at Xavier * The mental side of blocking and defense * Why she looks up to Haleigh Washington and Andi Jackson * And how she's learning to trust her training when things get tough This is Amari unfiltered — confident, hilarious, real — and ready for what's next. Watch now or listen on your favorite platform — and meet one of the most electric young hitters in the 2028 class.

Under the Hat — featuring Layli Ostovar

She's not just one of the most decorated high school players in the country — she's a student of the game, a silent force, and a mirror for what's possible when preparation meets poise. In this episode, we sit down with five-star USC commit and modern-day modern-day legend Layli Ostovar. From her quiet rituals of visualization to the rowdy tradition of touching a coach's shoe after an ace, Layli pulls the curtain back on the work behind the wins — and the stillness that sharpens her edge. We talk siblings, team chemistry, NIL dreams, and what it means to hold your standard when no one's watching. Layli shows us how calm can be a weapon. And how competitive doesn't have to be loud to be lethal.

️ Under the Hat | Player of the Year Spotlight: Jocelyn Samuels

In this episode of the Under the Hat Player of the Year Spotlight Series, we sit down with rising setter Jocelyn Samuels — a 2028 standout repping Harrisburg High School and Kairos Elite. We talk about everything from growing up in South Dakota and finding her rhythm as a setter, to what fuels her love for the game, the moments that shaped last club season, and what she's chasing this year. Jocelyn opens up about her journey, her goals, and the balance of school, life, and high-level volleyball — all with a dose of Halloween fun and fall-season energy. Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, this one's packed with insight, heart, and early-stage fire. Tune in and meet Jocelyn — a young athlete on the rise, with the mindset to match.

Under the Hat with Finley Kryskowiak

In this Player of the Year Spotlight, Kara Hill and Chris Tobolski go Under the Hat with Finley Krystkowiak — outside hitter for Torrey Pines High School and Wave Volleyball Club, and future Penn State Nittany Lion. They talk about Torrey Pines' incredible season, leadership through competition, and what made Penn State feel like home. Finley also opens up about growing up in a sports family, the mental side of her game, and how she's preparing for college volleyball. It's a mix of insight, laughter, and that competitive spark that makes Finley one of the top players in the country.