Nebraska volleyball coach John Cook retires after 25-year run; Dani Busboom Kelly to take over

LINCOLN, Neb. -- John Cook, the legendary four-time national champion coach of the Nebraska women's volleyball team, announced his retirement on Wednesday, concluding an illustrious 25-year tenure. Cook, 68, has been a transformative figure for the program, guiding the team to remarkable achievements including 12 Final Four appearances and national titles in 2000, 2006, 2015, and 2017.

Dani Busboom Kelly, a former player and assistant coach under Cook, will take over the reins as the new head coach. At 39, Busboom Kelly has spent the last eight years leading the Louisville team and was recognized as the 2021 AVCA national coach of the year after leading the Cardinals to the national championship match last month.

During Cook's time, Nebraska volleyball experienced unprecedented success, capturing immense attention and fanfare. Notably, he led a record-breaking outdoor match attendance of 92,003 fans at the school's football stadium in August 2023, marking a significant milestone in women's sports history.

Reflecting on his long career, Cook commented, "I've been here for 25 years. That's a long time to do something." His overall coaching record of 883 wins and 176 losses places him fifth in winning percentage for college volleyball, highlighted by 15 conference titles and three national coach of the year awards throughout his 32 years in the profession.

Under Cook's leadership, the Nebraska volleyball program not only excelled on the court but also achieved financial success, reporting a profit of $1.34 million in the 2023-24 season with revenues exceeding $7 million, a first in the sport. His legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the program and the landscape of women's athletics.