Vanover became involved with the initial planning of the Peach Belt in 1989. He was asked to serve as interim commissioner in April 1990 and was named the conference’s first full-time commissioner in June of 1991.

Prior to joining the Peach Belt, Vanover spent 25 years coaching basketball at Augusta State. In 1978, he led the former NAIA power to its first NCAA Division II tournament appearance. He earned South Atlantic Conference coach of the year honors in 1976 and 1981.

During his tenure, Peach Belt institutions have won 24 national championships in men’s basketball, women’s tennis, men’s tennis, softball, baseball and men’s golf. In 2006, South Carolina-Aiken’s men’s golf team won its third straight national title.

Vanover graduated from Georgia Southern and has served on the school’s alumni board. He holds a master’s degree from Peabody College.