Volleyball Hall of Fame Honors Nebraska Coach John Cook

Cook recognized for transformative leadership and community impact.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:41pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a volleyball match, with players' forms dissolving into bold, gestural brushstrokes.Volleyball's impact in Nebraska is celebrated through a dynamic, colorful illustration capturing the sport's energy and community spirit.Holyoke Today

The International Volleyball Hall of Fame (IVHF) has announced that John Cook, former head coach of the Nebraska Cornhuskers volleyball program and current general manager and co-owner of the Omaha Supernovas, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 IVHF Mayoral Award of Excellence. The award recognizes Cook's leadership in elevating volleyball as a powerful force within the Nebraska community, driving civic pride, cultural connection, and economic impact.

Why it matters

Cook's influence has helped redefine the visibility and impact of women's volleyball, fostering a culture that unites communities across Nebraska and elevates the sport as a central point of statewide identity. His work at both the collegiate and professional levels has solidified Nebraska's position as a national leader in the sport.

The details

Over his distinguished career, Cook built Nebraska into one of the most successful and widely supported programs in collegiate athletics. In addition to his collegiate success, Cook has further invested in the future of women's professional volleyball through his role as General Manager and Co-Owner of the Omaha Supernovas, which has led the world in professional volleyball average attendance for the past two seasons.

  • The award will be formally presented on Friday, April 10, 2026 at the CHI Health Center during the Supernovas match versus the Grand Rapids Rise.
  • Earlier this year, with Cook in the organization, the Supernovas set a new all-time U.S. professional volleyball attendance record, hosting a sellout crowd of 16,838 on March 14, 2026.

The players

John Cook

Former head coach of the Nebraska Cornhuskers volleyball program and current general manager and co-owner of the Omaha Supernovas.

Joshua Garcia

Mayor of Holyoke, Massachusetts – the Birthplace of Volleyball.

George Mulry

Executive Director of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame.

Omaha Supernovas

A women's professional volleyball franchise that has led the world in professional volleyball average attendance for the past two seasons.

Grand Rapids Rise

A women's professional volleyball team that will face the Omaha Supernovas on April 10, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“John Cook represents the very best of what volleyball can mean to a community. His leadership has shown how sport can unite people, inspire pride, and create moments that bring entire regions together. From Holyoke—the birthplace of volleyball—we are proud to recognize his incredible impact.”

— Joshua Garcia, Mayor of Holyoke, Massachusetts

“John has not only built one of the most successful programs in the history of the sport, but he has fundamentally changed how volleyball is experienced within a community. From record-breaking crowds to investing in the professional future of the game, his vision has elevated volleyball as both a cultural force and a civic asset. This award recognizes the lasting impact he has made well beyond the court.”

— George Mulry, Executive Director of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame

“I'm incredibly honored to receive this recognition from the International Volleyball Hall of Fame. Nebraska has always been a special place for volleyball, and everything I've helped build has been driven by the passion of our players, staff, and fans. What's meant the most to me is seeing how deeply this sport has connected with people in Nebraska and united communities across the state. To watch volleyball continue to grow here and beyond, and to be part of that at both the collegiate and professional levels, is something I'm very proud of.”

— John Cook

What’s next

The award presentation at the Omaha Supernovas match on April 10, 2026 will celebrate Cook's enduring legacy and his role in elevating volleyball as both a sport and a civic asset.

The takeaway

John Cook's transformative leadership has solidified Nebraska's position as a national leader in volleyball, uniting communities across the state through his vision for the sport as a powerful cultural and civic force. His impact extends beyond championships and wins, elevating volleyball as a central point of statewide identity.