What are the rules on player transfers, releases and international transfers?

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No moves in season: OPDL players cannot move between Licence Holders during the OPDL season (training or competition) without the OPDL's written permission. Transfers are only considered in exceptional circumstances that are in the player's best interest for ongoing development. Paperwork: every release or transfer goes through the OPDL Player Release/Transfer Form, signed off by all parties. Ontario Soccer publishes the mid-season transfer deadline each year. Released players: a released player cannot rejoin the Talented Pathway (OPDL or Ontario Premier League programs), as a full-time or development player, for the rest of the season. One transfer only: no player may be transferred more than once in a season. Fees: if a mid-season transfer is approved, fees the player paid are refundable pro rata by weeks completed in the season (January 1 to December 31), and no further levy or penalty can be charged to the departing player. Fees charged by the new club must match those of other players on the team. Commitment: once the season starts a Licence Holder cannot release full-time players from their commitment letter except as the rules allow, or after the season ends. Full-time players cannot be asked to miss an OPDL game. New to Canada: a player who arrives in Canada at age 10 or older needs an international transfer certificate (ITC) before being eligible. A player who registers without a required ITC is ineligible, games they played are forfeited, and the player and club face discipline. Source: OPDL Operational Rules, March 2026 (sections 22, 25 and 26).