Omaha Supernovas Part Ways with Head Coach

Thomas Robson named interim head coach for remainder of 2026 season

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:36am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a volleyball match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic action on the court.The Omaha Supernovas' coaching change aims to provide a fresh perspective and renewed energy as the team pushes for a return to the MLV Championship.Omaha Today

The Omaha Supernovas have parted ways with Head Coach Luka Slabe and promoted Thomas Robson to interim head coach for the remainder of the 2026 season. Blake Rawlins will remain on staff as assistant coach alongside Robson.

Why it matters

The Supernovas are a rising team in the MLV, having won the inaugural championship in 2024 and the regular season title in 2025. This coaching change comes midway through the 2026 season as the team looks to reach the MLV Championship in Dallas.

The details

Following the season, Robson will resume his role as assistant coach after signing an extension with the franchise through the 2028 season. Robson has played an instrumental role in Omaha's on-court success over the past three seasons.

  • The Supernovas (11-11) return to Kiewit Court at CHI Health Center Omaha this Friday, April 10, for the team's 'Volleyball After Dark Showcase.'
  • The Supernovas will host the Dallas Pulse on Sunday at 4 p.m. CDT.

The players

Luka Slabe

The former head coach of the Omaha Supernovas.

Thomas Robson

The new interim head coach of the Omaha Supernovas, who was previously an assistant coach. He has signed an extension with the franchise through the 2028 season.

Blake Rawlins

The assistant coach who will remain on staff alongside Robson.

Kirk Thompson

The co-owner of the Omaha Supernovas.

John Cook

The general manager and co-owner of the Omaha Supernovas.

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What they’re saying

“These decisions are never easy, but we felt a change was needed at this time to align with the expectations and direction of our organization. We appreciate Luka's contributions and wish him the best moving forward. As part of this franchise from the beginning, we have full confidence in Thomas as he steps in as interim head coach with a focus on reaching the MLV Championship in Dallas.”

— Kirk Thompson, Supernovas co-owner

“Thomas has been a big part of what we've built here, and we have full belief in him stepping into this role. Seeing firsthand the way he works with this group has been impressive, and he embodies what the Supernovas culture is all about. He understands this team, has their trust, and brings a presence that fits exactly what we need right now. We're confident in him leading this team, and we're excited to have him continue as a key part of our staff moving forward.”

— John Cook, General Manager & co-owner

What’s next

Following the season, Robson will resume his role as assistant coach after signing an extension with the franchise through the 2028 season.

The takeaway

This coaching change for the Omaha Supernovas comes at a critical juncture in the season as the team looks to return to the MLV Championship. The promotion of assistant coach Thomas Robson to interim head coach signals the organization's confidence in his ability to lead the team and maintain the winning culture they have built.