A bittersweet day in Lincoln. It was announced on Wednesday that John Cook is retiring after 25 seasons as head coach of Nebraska volleyball.
The GOAT of college volleyball
Cook coached some of the best teams in the history of college volleyball. He led the Huskers to four National Championships, 12 Final Fours and 14 conference titles. Cook’s 83.4 win percentage is ranked fifth all-time. His legacy speaks for itself.
Over the past 25 years, the only consistency in Nebraska athletics was volleyball. From the football program declining, to the change in athletic directors; Cook gave Nebraskans something to be proud of.
There is no replacing John Cook. He was one-of-a-kind. He represented the state in a true Nebraskan way. Cook built a dynasty in Lincoln. The greatest college volleyball coach there is will be an icon for the sport. Cook can now enjoy retirement, riding his horses.
Busboom Kelly will succeed Cook
Current Louisville head coach Dani Busboom Kelly will take over for Cook. Nebraska athletic director Troy Dannen acted quickly. The new era of Husker volleyball is in good hands with Busboom Kelly at the helm. She led Louisville to two National Championship appearances, including this past season.
Busboom Kelly played under Cook from 2003-2006 and was an assistant coach from 2012-2016. During her two stints she won two National Championships, one as a player and one as an assistant under Cook.
Busboom Kelly had an 82 percent win percentage coaching the Cardinals. The Courtland Nebraska native is the right person to take over. She was built upon Cook’s philosophy. Although you can’t replace John Cook, Busboom Kelly knows the standard.