It is more reasonable, but it doesn't make it right. A kid should be able to transfer to any team in the country, whether it be in your conference or not. That tells me a coach doesn't think he can beat a player that transfers to an in conference school or they are just being plain chicken $#*! I have no problem what so ever for a kid to transfer to a college of his or her choice if given a release from a scholarship. If I were the coach, encourage it, then show the player what a mistake they made by beating them every time they play.
Good for Romero for sticking to her guns. I hope she is successful regardless where she goes.