For most coaches, the number 600 would stand out as a milestone — a testament to decades of discipline, skill, and consistency. But for longtime Little Rock volleyball coach
Van Compton, the number is less a badge of honor and more a reflection of the people who've shaped her journey.
"Did I ever think I'd stay here for 40 years? Probably not," Compton said with a laugh. "Time just slips away from you. One of the players, after the match, said, 'Congratulations, coach!' and I said, 'For what?' She told me it was for 600 wins — I didn't even realize it."
Her humility is disarming, but it's clear that the veteran coach's influence extends far beyond the court.
"I think it's more important to me that I make young people win on the court, off the court, and in their adult life. Becoming good citizens — that's what matters most. I've had great players, great assistant coaches, and great backing from the administration. I'm just a small piece of the puzzle."
Asked what has kept her going year after year, she smiles.
"I love my job. I love the people I work with. I love the athletes. I've been blessed with good health, and I always wanted to influence and improve young people's lives."
That joy radiates through her personality. Despite decades on the sidelines, her energy feels untouched by time.
"Being around young people keeps you young," she said. "And I think I have a lot of inner peace because I am a Christian. You either grow old gracefully, or you just grow old — and I've tried to grow old gracefully."
Over 40 years, volleyball — and the world around it — has changed dramatically.
"When I started, the overhead serve had just been introduced. We played games to 15, only the serving team could score, and matches were two out of three. Now it's all rally scoring," she reflected.
But what's changed most, she said, is the athletes' environment.
"Back in the day, there weren't as many distractions. Practice or a match was probably the highlight of your day. Now, with social media and everything else tugging at them, it's harder to stay focused."
Her current squad, built through key transfers and returning veterans, has reignited excitement around the program.
"This team has the ability to do it," she said confidently. "We've got to stay intentional and purposeful in how we practice. When they bring their energy, we play our best."
A strong finish could place them high in the conference standings and open the door to the NCAA tournament — a feat not achieved since 2014.
"If we can win out, we'll have a better seed and a better chance to get there," she said.
At this stage in her career, the question of retirement naturally looms.
"Winning championships brings different emotions," she said. "When you're young, you think about building dynasties or maybe getting a better job. When you're older, you think about going out on a winning note. But coaches are always optimistic — you always wonder, 'What could I do better next year?'"
She admits the decision will be emotional.
"I've been at UALR for 40 years and coached 11 before that. There's a time to turn the page and open the door for someone new — someone younger, maybe. But it's going to carry a lot of emotion whenever I make that decision."
Whether or not this season is her last, her legacy is already sealed — not in banners or trophies, but in the hundreds of athletes she's mentored along the way.
"600 wins is nice," she said, "but helping young people win at life — that's the real victory."
