Hope College

Brian VanZanten has been a member of the cross country coaching staff since 1999. He became associate head coach for the Flying Dutch and Flying Dutchmen beginning in the 2016 season. 

VanZanten started his competitive running career as a junior for the Flying Dutchmen.  VanZanten earned a bachelor of science degree in chemistry and biochemistry from Hope in 1995 and immediately began working for several local pharmaceutical companies. Following several years of product development, he returned to school to earn a teaching certificate in chemistry and biology. Today he is a teacher for West Ottawa Public Schools, having completed a master's degree in secondary and adult education at Grand Valley State University with further graduate work in chemistry education.

VanZanten's wife, Jenifer (Hodge), is also a 1995 graduate of Hope and a former cross country athlete for the Flying Dutch. The couple enjoys sharing their love for Hope College with their three children, Joel, Grace, and Ana.