LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – One of the most influential and enduring leaders in Little Rock Athletics history is stepping away. Head volleyball coach
Van Compton, a cornerstone of the department for nearly four decades, has announced her retirement after serving the institution since 1986.
Compton first arrived at Little Rock to coach women's basketball before transitioning to volleyball two seasons later — a move that would define an era. She also served as the department's Senior Woman Administrator during her tenure, contributing to the growth of women's athletics across the program.
"I am so grateful to have been here as long as I have," Compton said. "I've enjoyed every minute of my tenure, but it's time to turn the page and open the door for someone younger. It was an emotional decision because I love coaching and love our players, but it was time."
Compton's retirement follows the achievement of two career-defining milestones this season: surpassing the 600-win mark as a Trojan and her election to the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame. She concludes her Little Rock career with a 603-527 record — 675 wins overall — after completing her 38th season at the helm.
During that remarkable stretch, Compton built Little Rock Volleyball into one of the most respected programs in the region. Her teams captured four Sun Belt regular-season championships, five Sun Belt Tournament titles and made five NCAA Tournament appearances. A commitment to excellence, consistency and player development helped define the standard for the program.
"Coach Compton's impact on Little Rock Athletics and the state of Arkansas is immeasurable," said Director of Athletics
Frank M. Cuervo. "For nearly four decades, she has embodied what it means to be a Trojan — competitive, principled, and committed to her student-athletes. She built a championship-caliber program that elevated our department and influenced generations of young women through her mentorship and leadership. We will miss her presence deeply, but her legacy will continue to shape Little Rock Athletics for years to come. We are profoundly grateful for all she has given to this institution."
A national search to identify the next Trojan Volleyball head coach will be launched immediately.
Her early years showcased program-building ability. In 1989, Compton engineered a 21-win improvement, guiding the Trojans to a 27-11 record. A year later, Little Rock finished 21-3, and when the program transitioned into the Sun Belt in 1991, Compton's teams were immediately a league powerhouse.
The late 1990s marked an era of dominance that still stands unmatched. From 1996–98, Little Rock became the only program ever to win three consecutive Sun Belt Tournament titles, each resulting in an NCAA Championship berth. The Trojans added more accolades in 1999 and 2000, cementing their place among college volleyball's elite.
Her 2014 squad remains the gold standard of her tenure. The Trojans finished 30-5, posted the first-ever 20-0 Sun Belt record, held the nation's longest winning streak late in the season, defeated No. 16 seed Kansas for the program's first NCAA Tournament win, and finished No. 24 in the final AVCA poll — the first Top-25 ranking in school history. Compton earned both Sun Belt and AVCA Southwest Region Coach of the Year honors that season.
"We won a lot of games and enjoyed a great deal of success in 38 seasons," Compton reflected. "I couldn't have done that without so many talented players. We have had determined, hardworking young women who wanted to be great. While the success was wonderful, I'm most proud of the character of these young women and how they've succeeded in life. That's what matters most."
Beloved among colleagues for her warmth and steady leadership, Compton has been a constant presence through generations of administrators, coaches and staff.
"We've had some really good people work here," she said. "I've enjoyed my friendships with the administrators and coaches I've worked with. I love coming to the office every day. I'm really going to miss being at the Jack Stephens Center."
A native of Forrest City and a graduate of Arkansas State, Compton began her career as a high school teacher before entering the college ranks. Her journey ultimately led her to Little Rock — where she became a pillar of the department and one of the most respected figures in Arkansas athletics.
Van Compton leaves behind far more than victories and titles. She leaves a legacy of integrity, mentorship, competitive spirit and transformational leadership — a legacy that will endure long after her final season.
