Big Ten rosters fill with Division III transfers as athletes seek higher stakes

McKena Ramos has become a prominent example of the shifting talent flow within collegiate athletics after transferring from a small school to a major conference power. The senior from Sheboygan joined the University of Wisconsin-Madison Badgers following a breakout season at UW-Oshkosh. His move illustrates a broader trend where high performers in non-scholarship divisions are seeking the resources and intensity of top-tier programs.

Ramos arrived at Oshkosh as a recruited track athlete, though his coaches did not initially project him for immediate national success. Eamon McKenna, the track and cross-country coach, noted that the athlete was considered good but under the radar. Ramos had set a personal benchmark to win a national title as a freshman before considering a move up. He achieved that goal by winning the indoor 800-meter and outdoor 1500-meter titles, which triggered his transfer to Madison.

Since joining the Badgers, Ramos has contributed to both track and cross-country teams. He reports that the higher level of competition has improved his times, as he now races against athletes of equal or superior ability. The opportunity to travel and compete on the largest stages has also been a significant factor in his decision. This path is increasingly common, with every Big Ten school currently listing at least one transfer from a Division III program on a roster.

The football program has seen similar moves. Ricky Finco, a junior wide receiver, transferred to Madison from UW-Whitewater after a single season. He currently plays primarily on the scout team. Ryan Ramczyk also made the jump from UW-Stevens Point, where he dominated the offensive line. His performance in Madison earned him All-American honors and improved his standing on NFL Draft boards.

Not all athletes find the top level a suitable fit. Emma Paulson left the UW-Madison swim team during her freshman year and returned to the University of St. Thomas, a Division III institution in Minnesota. She concluded that the intensity of Division I swimming took over her life, whereas at St. Thomas, athletics are simply a part of her routine. At St. Thomas, she finished her career with three individual national championships and nine All-American honors.

The financial and structural differences between the divisions remain significant. Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships and typically operate with smaller facilities. Ramos noted that while running workouts are similar, Madison provides specialized resources like ice baths that were absent at Oshkosh. He also credited the academic support at the Fetzer Center, including tutoring and the ability to take exams while traveling. In contrast, Paulson stated she is held to the same academic standards as non-athletes at St. Thomas and does not receive designated support services.

Both athletes report high satisfaction with their respective paths. Ramos described competing for Madison as a dream realized since middle school. McKenna advises that standout Division III athletes will find opportunities, but the critical question is whether they can maintain their dominance in a new environment.