Former Stanford coach Tara VanDerveer, known for her curiosity and leadership style, amassed a record-breaking 1,216 wins in her 45-year coaching career at three different schools. Winning three national championships at Stanford and earning the title of national coach of the year five times, VanDerveer emphasized the importance of relationships and authenticity in coaching. She is currently working on a book about leadership and teamwork, reflecting her philosophy of "do your best and forgive the rest."
VanDerveer's coaching approach is rooted in curiosity and a willingness to learn from every person and situation. She values the journey and emphasizes the significance of teamwork and resilience in achieving success. Concerned about the current landscape of college athletics, particularly with the rise of transfer portals and NIL money, VanDerveer advocates for young athletes to focus on enjoying the journey, maintaining commitment, and seeking help when needed. Reflecting on her coaching career, she acknowledges the pressure to win and emphasizes the importance of introspection and balance in leadership.