The Runaround Podcast

Part 2: Coaching and Fostering Success with Hall of Fame Coach Paul Vandersteen

Sienna McEneaney Episode 12

In the second part of this conversation with Coach Paul Vandersteen, he dives into his current endeavors as a coach. He shares the differences between coaching collegiate/adult athletes and coaching high schoolers, in addition to the surprising things both groups have in common. He also informs about ways for any athlete to be successful in and beyond high school. This is an extremely informative episode for athletes and coaches alike. 

Coach Vandersteen has been coaching runners for 36 years. Most well known for his 26 years as Neuqua Valley's head men's cross country and assistant track and field coach, Vandersteen helped lead the Wildcats to three state championships in cross country and assisted with two in track. He is also in the Illinois High School Association Coaches Hall of Fame. Having retired in 2023, Coach Vandersteen now spends his time running a private training group, coaching the Naperville Running Company Track Club, and assisting with the North Central College men's cross country team.