Born: 1953 (West Hill, Schenectady, New York)
Biography:
Tara Ann VanDerveer, born on June 26, 1953, is an American basketball coach who has made an indelible mark on women’s basketball. As the head women’s basketball coach at Stanford University since 1985, VanDerveer has become synonymous with excellence in coaching and has played a pivotal role in advancing the sport.
Born to Dunbar and Rita VanDerveer, Tara was named after the plantation in the classic novel Gone with the Wind. She grew up in the small community of West Hill near Schenectady, New York, where she developed a passion for sports from a young age. Despite there being no sports teams for girls at her first high school, Tara played various sports including basketball in recreational leagues and pickup games. Her dedication and skill on the court led her to stand out, even when playing with both boys and girls. To ensure her inclusion in the games, Tara invested in the best basketball she could afford, making her an undeniable asset on any team.
During her sophomore year of high school, VanDerveer’s family moved to Niagara Falls. She then transferred to Buffalo Seminary, an all-girls college preparatory school, where she continued to pursue her love for basketball. Despite not having played at the high-school level before, Tara’s talent and determination earned her a place in the Buffalo Seminary’s Athletic Hall of Fame.
Setting her sights on playing basketball in college, VanDerveer enrolled at Albany, her father’s alma mater. While the team at Albany was not highly competitive, Tara’s passion and drive on the court propelled her to excel. Despite being a freshman, she took on the challenge of playing in the center position and led the team in numerous categories, showcasing her natural talent and leadership skills.
After completing her undergraduate studies, VanDerveer embarked on her coaching career. She initially served as an assistant coach at Ohio State University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the University of Idaho. These experiences provided valuable insights and shaped her coaching philosophy in preparation for her future success.
In 1985, VanDerveer was appointed as the head women’s basketball coach at Stanford University. This marked the beginning of a legendary tenure that has spanned over three decades and brought unparalleled success to the Cardinal program. VanDerveer’s impact was immediate as she led Stanford to its first NCAA Women’s Final Four appearance in 1990, securing the program’s first national championship. This triumph was a testament to her coaching acumen and ability to cultivate a winning culture.
Building upon this early success, VanDerveer continued to guide the Stanford Cardinal to new heights. Another national championship followed in 1992, solidifying VanDerveer’s status as one of the premier coaches in women’s basketball. Throughout her career at Stanford, she has consistently produced winning seasons, brought home conference titles, and nurtured countless talented players who have excelled both on and off the court.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to women’s basketball, VanDerveer was appointed as the U.S. national team head coach at the 1996 Olympic Games. This opportunity allowed her to showcase her coaching prowess on the international stage and further solidify her reputation as a trailblazer in the sport.
Throughout her illustrious career, VanDerveer has been revered for her unwavering commitment to the development of young athletes. Her coaching style emphasizes the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, instilling valuable life lessons in her players. As a result, she has played a significant role in shaping the lives of her students and has left an indelible mark on women’s basketball.
Tara VanDerveer’s extraordinary achievements have earned her numerous accolades and honors. She was named the Naismith National Coach of the Year in 1990 and has been recognized as the Pac-12 Coach of the Year ten times. In 2002, VanDerveer was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, solidifying her place among the greatest coaches in the history of the sport. Furthermore, on December 15, 2020, she surpassed Pat Summitt for the most wins in women’s college basketball history, further cementing her legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Tara VanDerveer’s dedication, passion, and unparalleled success have had a profound impact on the advancement of women’s basketball. Her coaching brilliance and unwavering commitment to excellence have inspired a new generation of athletes and paved the way for the continued growth and recognition of the sport.
Awards:
– 1990 Naismith National Coach of the Year
– Ten-time Pac-12 Coach of the Year
– Inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2002
– Surpassed Pat Summitt for the most wins in women’s college basketball history