John Cook Appointed Co-Owner and General Manager of Omaha Supernovas

A New Chapter for a Volleyball Legend

After more than three decades of coaching, one of the most respected names in college volleyball is stepping into a new role that promises to be just as impactful. John Cook, a four-time NCAA champion and former head coach of the Nebraska Huskers, has taken on the position of Co-Owner and General Manager of the Omaha Supernovas. This move marks a significant shift in his career, as he transitions from the collegiate arena to the professional level while staying in the state where his coaching journey began.

Cook’s decision to join the Supernovas comes at an exciting time for the franchise. The team is preparing for the Major League Volleyball (MLV) free agency, which starts on August 7. As General Manager, Cook will oversee all team operations, including player and coaching staff signings. His extensive experience in building successful programs makes him a valuable asset as the Supernovas aim to compete at the highest level.

This development follows the departure of Laura “Bird” Kuhn, who was the head coach of the Supernovas. She left to pursue new leadership opportunities. Under her guidance, the team achieved a 38-15 record in two seasons, with a .717 winning percentage. The Supernovas also claimed the Pro Volleyball Federation title during that time.

Looking ahead, the Supernovas are set to make their mark in the inaugural Major League Volleyball Championship. The 2026 regular season is scheduled to begin in January, following the recent merger between MLV and the Pro Volleyball Federation. This partnership brings together two of the top volleyball leagues in the country, creating a stronger platform for professional athletes.

Diane Mendenhall, the president of the Supernovas, will continue to lead the organization’s front office and external operations. She will work closely with Cook, who she has known since 2000 when he hired her as the first Director of Operations in Nebraska volleyball history. Their collaboration has been instrumental in shaping the success of both the Huskers and the Supernovas.

“I’ve always cherished my relationship with coach Cook, and it’s incredibly special to be reuniting with him,” Mendenhall said in a release. “He brought me to Nebraska when he took over the volleyball program in 2000. I saw firsthand how he built it into a national powerhouse. That foundation shaped how we approached building the Supernovas at the pro level. His vision, experience and winning mentality are unmatched, and I’m thrilled to be working alongside him again.”

Cook retired from coaching earlier this year after 25 seasons at Nebraska and 32 seasons as a collegiate head coach. He took over the Huskers program in 2000 from Terry Pettit, who remains an influential figure within the Omaha Supernovas. During his tenure, Cook led Nebraska to four national titles, 12 NCAA semifinal appearances, nine Big 12 championships, and five Big Ten crowns. His impressive record of 883–176 (.834) places him fifth in NCAA Division I volleyball history for winning percentage.

A three-time AVCA National Coach of the Year, Cook also played a key role in developing future Olympians, AVCA National Players of the Year, and over 70 AVCA All-Americans. His legacy as a coach is undeniable, and now he is bringing that same expertise to the professional level.

The Supernovas will return to the CHI Health Center in January 2026 for their third professional season, marking their debut in the newly branded Major League Volleyball. With Cook at the helm, the team is poised to build on its previous successes and establish itself as a dominant force in the league.