Kyle Madsen, a 6-foot-10, 228-pound forward from Dublin, has decided to transfer from Vanderbilt University to a school closer to home, and the University of Dayton is one of five Ohio schools stipulated on his scholarship release. 

Vanderbilt coach Kevin Stallings made the announcement Tuesday. Madsen, who was a redshirt freshman last year, also listed Miami University, Ohio University, Xavier and Ohio State as schools of interest to him.

If he transfers to a Division I school, he will have to sit out the 2006-07 season.

UD coach Brian Gregory, who recruited Madsen when he played at Dublin Coffman High School, said he is aware of Madsen's decision but has not spoken to him.

Neil Madsen, Kyle's father, was quoted in the statement saying, "Kyle was treated wonderfully at Vanderbilt. It is a great school, and coach Stallings and his staff are great people. Kyle simply wanted to get closer to home. That's where the crux of his decision was made."

"We understand Kyle's desire to be closer to home," Stallings said. "He is an outstanding young man and we wish him nothing but the best."

In the class of 2005, Madsen was considered one of the best centers in Ohio. He averaged 16.7 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.1 blocks while earning Ohio Capital Conference player of the year honors at Dublin Coffman.