Nebraska volleyball is entering an exciting new chapter as Dani Busboom Kelly takes over as the fourth head coach of the Huskers’ legendary women’s volleyball program. A former Husker star and accomplished coach, Busboom Kelly brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a deep love for Nebraska volleyball as she steps into John Cook’s shoes.
Fans are eager to see what the 39-year-old will bring to the table, and with her proven track record of success at Louisville, expectations are sky-high. Let’s take a closer look at her journey from standout athlete to championship-winning coach and what her return means for Nebraska volleyball.
Hometown Roots and Family Life
Born on May 5, 1985, Dani Busboom Kelly grew up in Cortland, Nebraska, where her passion for sports began early. Her parents, Bonnie and Gene Busboom, encouraged her athletic pursuits, and she thrived at Adams Freeman High School in multiple sports.
Busboom Kelly is married to Lane Kelly, a former Nebraska football player, and together they have a son, Boone. With strong family ties in Nebraska, her return to the Huskers is truly a homecoming.
At 39 years old (as of 2025), Busboom Kelly has not only built a successful career but also established financial stability. Her estimated net worth is around $3 million, thanks to her coaching contracts, endorsements, and bonuses from her impressive coaching achievements.
From Multi-Sport Star to Nebraska Volleyball Legend
Before becoming a volleyball icon, Busboom Kelly was a standout multi-sport athlete. Competing for Adams Freeman High School, she won two state basketball championships, a state volleyball title, and even a gold medal in the Class D 100m hurdles. Her athletic versatility set the stage for her transition to collegiate volleyball.
In 2003, she joined the Nebraska Cornhuskers as a setter before switching to the libero position in 2006. Her ability to adapt and excel was instrumental in Nebraska’s success. During her time with the Huskers:
- She led the team to three Big 12 titles.
- She played in two NCAA finals.
- She helped the Huskers win the 2006 national championship.
Busboom Kelly finished her Nebraska career as one of only two players to rank among NU’s all-time leaders in both digs (1,281, second) and assists (2,873, eighth). In 2006, she was named the Big 12’s best libero, setting a new single-season digs record for Nebraska.
Not only was she dominant on the court, but she also excelled academically. She was a three-time first-team Academic All-Big 12 honoree and earned a bachelor’s degree in communications studies from Nebraska in 2007.
Coaching Journey: From Nebraska to Louisville and Back
Busboom Kelly’s coaching career began in 2011 with the Louisville Cardinals, where she spent a season before returning to Nebraska as an assistant coach under John Cook in 2012. She played a key role in developing Nebraska’s setters, liberos, and outside hitters, while also leading recruitment efforts.
In 2017, she returned to Louisville—this time as head coach. She wasted no time making an impact:
- 2017: Won the ACC Championship in her first year.
- 2019: Led the team to the national quarterfinals—the best finish in program history.
- 2021: Reached the NCAA national semifinals.
- 2022 & 2024: Louisville finished as NCAA runners-up.
Her leadership and success earned her the 2021 AVCA National Coach of the Year award. By the time she returned to Nebraska in 2025, Busboom Kelly had transformed Louisville into a national powerhouse.
Taking Over Nebraska Volleyball: A Dream Come True
After an incredible run with Louisville, Busboom Kelly is now back home as the head coach of Nebraska volleyball. When asked about her return, she shared an emotional statement:
“The opportunity to come home to Nebraska is more than a dream come true. I want to thank Troy Dannen, Dr. Jeffrey Gold, and Kristen Brown for their trust in me to continue the legacy of Nebraska volleyball. A huge thank you to John Cook. I would not be here without his mentorship and support.”
“I’ve gotten chills listening to the roars in the Coliseum and now Devaney since I was nine years old. Nebraska is the greatest place in the world to play volleyball and I am honored to be a part of it once again! My family and I can’t wait to get to work and bring more championships home. Go Big Red!”
The Future of Nebraska Volleyball Under Busboom Kelly
In the 2024 season, Nebraska made a semifinals appearance in the national championships, ultimately losing to Penn State, the eventual champions. Now, Busboom Kelly’s mission is clear—to bring Nebraska back to the national title match and win the program’s fifth championship.
With her deep understanding of the Huskers’ culture, her coaching pedigree, and her passion for Nebraska volleyball, she is well-equipped to take the program to even greater heights.
What Can Fans Expect in 2025?
With Busboom Kelly leading the charge, Nebraska volleyball fans can expect:
- A dynamic and disciplined team built around her defensive and recruiting expertise.
- A focus on setter and libero development, areas where she has excelled as both a player and coach.
- A strong recruiting push to keep Nebraska among the top programs in the nation.
A New Chapter Begins
Dani Busboom Kelly’s return to Nebraska is more than just a coaching change—it’s the continuation of a rich volleyball tradition. As she takes over from John Cook, her mentor and one of the greatest coaches in NCAA history, she has big shoes to fill. But if history tells us anything, Busboom Kelly is more than ready for the challenge.
Huskers fans, get ready—a new era of Nebraska volleyball has begun!
What are your thoughts on Dani Busboom Kelly’s return? Share your excitement in the comments!
