Four-time national champion Nebraska Volleyball Coach John Cook, who has won more matches than any other Division 1 volleyball coach, unexpectedly announced his retirement on Wednesday, January 29. Cook has coached at Nebraska for 25 years and has seen four national championships. 

Cook began his career as a coach in 1993. He spent his first seven years coaching at Wisconsin and then in 2000, became the head coach for Nebraska.  He has guided Nebraska volleyball to four national championships in 2000, 2006, 2015, and 2017. Cook has also led the Huskers to 12 semifinal appearances, nine Big 12 titles, and five Big Ten titles. 

Many players were shocked by this sudden announcement. Many expressed their statements about how much they will miss Cook and upcoming players stated that they will be upset about not being able to play for their dream coach. One of these players who expressed a rollercoaster of emotions was Bergen Relly.

“We found out within a span of two minutes that coach was leaving and Dani was coming, and so it was a lot of sadness that Coach was leaving, but also just appreciation for what he has done, for our time with him.” Relly said.

One of Cook’s goals was to sell out home matches and expand media exposure for his program. His vision came true in 2013 when the volleyball program moved to the newly renovated Bob Devaney Center. The Devaney Center increased the capacity crowd for Nebraska volleyball matches. In 2023, Cook took his team outside to play outdoors in a football stadium which was a huge success. 92,003 people packed Memorial Stadium for Volleyball Day in Nebraska on August 30.

“It’s been a great run,” Cook, 68, said in a statement, “I want to thank my family for their support…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.” 

Cook’s post-retirement plans are to head out to Wyoming with his wife, where he has a second home. Leaving many to wonder who will take his place. It has been announced Dani Busboom Kelly will take over the Husker Volleyball team. Kelly played for the Huskers Volleyball team in 2006 when they won a national championship in Omaha. She was also one of Cook’s assistant coaches in 2015 when Nebraska won another NCAA title. Kelly signed a six-year contract with Nebraska and plans on leading the team to another national championship. 

“The opportunity to come home to Nebraska is more than a dream come true, ” she said in a statement. “A huge thank you to John Cook.  I would not be here without his mentorship and support.” Kelly said.

Despite the transfer portal opening right after Cook’s announcement. Nebraska hasn’t lost a single player showing their commitment and open-mindedness towards their new coach. Kelly is excited to take over as the head coach and has shown that she is passionate about volleyball. Players and Husker fans are excited to see what Kelly will achieve in 2025.