Nebraska Volleyball Legend John Cook Retires, Dani Busboom Kelly Takes Over

2025-01-30

Nebraska volleyball legend John Cook has announced his retirement after 25 years as head coach of the Cornhuskers, leaving behind a legacy of four NCAA titles and a record of 722-103 (.875 winning percentage). Cook, who led Nebraska to 12 Final Four appearances and multiple conference championships, will be succeeded by former Husker player and assistant coach Dani Busboom Kelly.

Busboom Kelly, a Nebraska native and key member of the 2006 national championship team, returns to her alma mater after eight successful seasons as head coach at Louisville. During her tenure with the Cardinals, she compiled a 203-43 record, led the team to three Final Fours, two national championship matches, and four ACC titles. She was named AVCA National Coach of the Year in 2021.

In a statement, Busboom Kelly expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to return to Nebraska, calling it a “dream come true.” She credited Cook for his mentorship and support, emphasizing her excitement to continue the program’s tradition of excellence. Cook, in his farewell remarks, highlighted the importance of his players’ success beyond volleyball and thanked fans for their unwavering support.

Busboom Kelly has signed a six-year contract with Nebraska and will be formally introduced as head coach on February 6. Her appointment marks a new chapter for a program that has consistently set attendance records and remains a powerhouse in collegiate volleyball.

Cook retires after 722 volleyball wins at Nebraska

Nebraska women's volleyball coach John Cook retired Wednesday, and the school hired former player Dani Busboom Kelly to replace him.

www.espn.com

Dani Busboom Kelly Named New Nebraska Volleyball Coach, Replacing John Cook

Dani Busboom Kelly is coming home. Just minutes after John Cook officially announced his retirement after 25 years of leading Nebraska volleyball, Bus

www.si.com

UofL volleyball coach departs for alma mater - Louisville Business First

Former UofL volleyball coach Dani Busboom Kelly got the chance to go home and she took it.

www.bizjournals.com

UofL volleyball coach Dani Busboom Kelly leaving Louisville for Nebraska

Louisville volleyball coach Dani Busboom Kelly is leaving the Cardinals to take the head coaching job at her alma mater.

www.wlky.com

Nebraska volleyball's seismic shift from John Cook to Dani Busboom Kelly: 'It’s been a great run'

The most seismic 21 minutes for Nebraska volleyball in a quarter century began with a shocking farewell to a legend and ended with the welcome of a fa

omaha.com

Outside hitter Gabby DiVita becomes first in Nebraska Volleyball's Class of 2026

Nebraska Volleyball has landed its first member of the class of 2026 in outside hitter Gabby DiVita from Michigan

www.on3.com

Louisville volleyball loses Dani Busboom Kelly to Nebraska, names Dan Meske new head coach

In eight seasons as the University of Louisville volleyball coach Dani Busboom Kelly took the Cardinals to eight NCAA Tournaments and two national run

www.wdrb.com