Dani Busboom Kelly Takes Helm as Nebraska Volleyball Head Coach Amid John Cook’s Retirement

Dani Busboom Kelly has been officially named the new head coach of the Nebraska Cornhuskers volleyball team following the retirement of the iconic John Cook. Busboom Kelly, a former player for the Cornhuskers, has a decorated tenure as the head coach at the University of Louisville, where she led the Cardinals to their first-ever NCAA championship match in 2022. Under her leadership, the Louisville volleyball program achieved remarkable success, culminating in a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament, three consecutive NCAA tournament appearances, and an impressive record of 92-25 over her four seasons at the helm. Notably, she has also earned accolades such as the 2022 AVCA National Coach of the Year. ‘This is a dream come true,’ said Busboom Kelly in a statement. ‘To come back to Nebraska, where I played and experienced so much success, is an incredible honor. I am looking forward to building on the legacy that Coach Cook has created.’ John Cook, who announced his retirement on January 29, 2025, has left a substantial mark on the Nebraska volleyball program, leading the team to four NCAA championships and 17 Big Ten titles over his 24-year tenure. His coaching philosophy and steadfast dedication transformed the Cornhuskers into a perennial power in college volleyball. Cook emphasized, ‘It’s time for me to step aside and allow the next generation to take this program to new heights.’ With Busboom Kelly now at the helm, the Nebraska volleyball community eagerly anticipates the new chapter that is set to unfold under her leadership.