41: What the 5-Year Eligibility Rule Means for Volleyball Recruiting

What could happen to volleyball recruiting if college athletes are given five full years of eligibility?

In this episode, Susan breaks down the NCAA’s proposed “5 years to play 5” rule and shares seven major ripple effects she believes could reshape the future of volleyball recruiting.

From fewer roster spots at top programs to the growing importance of Division III and junior college opportunities, Susan walks through how the recruiting landscape could become more competitive and more strategic for families navigating the process.

She also explains how roster limits, the transfer portal, international recruiting, and the rise of older, more experienced college athletes may impact recruiting timelines and opportunities for future classes.

This episode is not meant to create fear or panic, but instead help families think ahead, better understand the bigger picture, and make more informed recruiting decisions moving forward.

Chapters

00:00 – Understanding the proposed 5-year rule
01:45 – Fewer roster spots at top programs
08:15 – The talent trickle-down effect
11:30 – Why high academic D3s may benefit
19:30 – The growing value of junior college
23:00 – A higher level of college volleyball
26:30 – How the transfer portal may evolve
28:30 – The future of the student-athlete model
32:30 – International recruiting implications
34:30 – Final thoughts on the future of recruiting

Connect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susank

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