John Cook has announced his retirement after 25 seasons as Nebraska’s head volleyball coach, closing a decorated career that includes multiple national championships and a lasting impact on the program. The 68-year-old coach reflected on his journey, thanking those who supported him along the way.
Here’s what Cook said about his decision, who’s stepping in next, and what it means for Nebraska volleyball.
John Cook retires as volleyball coach
John Cook, head coach of Nebraska women’s volleyball for 25 seasons, announced his retirement on Wednesday. Cook, 68, won four NCAA national championships with the Cornhuskers and compiled a career head coaching record of 883-176 (.834), including 722 wins at Nebraska. “It’s been a great run,”
Cook said in a statement. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with some great coaches and staff over the years, and I’m forever grateful for how hard they worked and for how much they gave to Nebraska volleyball.”
Dani Busboom Kelly, a former Nebraska player and assistant coach, will succeed Cook. The 39-year-old played as a setter and libero for the Huskers, winning a national title in 2006. She later served as Cook’s assistant during Nebraska’s 2015 NCAA championship run.
As Louisville’s head coach since 2017, Busboom Kelly led the Cardinals to three Final Fours and two national title matches, finishing as runner-up in 2022 and 2024. Under her leadership, Louisville won or shared four ACC titles. Nebraska announced she has signed a six-year contract.
Cook started his coaching career at the high school level before becoming an assistant at UC San Diego and Nebraska. He led Wisconsin from 1992 to 1998 before returning to Nebraska, where he took over in 2000 and won his first NCAA title that year. Under his leadership, the Huskers won nine Big 12 titles before moving to the Big Ten, adding five more championships.
Nebraska volleyball set multiple attendance records under Cook. On August 30, 2023, 92,003 fans attended a match at Memorial Stadium, setting a world record for a women’s sporting event. A three-time AVCA National Coach of the Year, Cook coached five Olympians and 72 All-Americans. “Lastly and most importantly, I want to thank the fans for always supporting Nebraska volleyball,” he said.
