John G. Cook has been the heart and soul of Nebraska volleyball for 25 incredible seasons. From 2000 to 2025, he turned the Cornhuskers into one of the most dominant programs in the country, winning four national championships and countless conference titles. Now, at 68 years old, Cook has decided to retire, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
But who is the man behind the coaching legend? Let’s take a deep dive into John Cook’s journey—from his early years to his coaching career, family life, and the impact he’s had on the sport of volleyball.
Early Life and Education
John Cook was born on April 19, 1956, in Chula Vista, California. His family has deep roots in the area—he is the great-grandson of Hazel Goes Cook, one of Chula Vista’s early settlers. Growing up, Cook was an athletic kid, excelling in basketball during his time at Francis Parker School in San Diego.
He played college basketball for the San Diego Toreros, but when the team moved up to NCAA Division I, he decided to focus on coaching instead. Cook went on to earn a degree in history from the University of San Diego in 1979 and later obtained a master’s degree in teaching and coaching effectiveness from San Diego State University in 1991.
The Road to Becoming a Volleyball Coaching Legend
Cook’s coaching career began humbly when he returned to Francis Parker School to teach geography while also coaching volleyball. His passion for the sport led him to take on assistant coaching roles at UC San Diego in 1983 and 1984, eventually opening doors for bigger opportunities.
In 1989, Cook joined Nebraska as an assistant coach, laying the foundation for what would become his lifelong connection with the program. But before taking over at Nebraska, he made a significant impact as the head coach at Wisconsin (1992-1998), where he led the team to a National Invitational Volleyball Championship win.
By 2000, Cook had returned to Nebraska, this time as head coach, replacing his mentor, Terry Pettit. That very season, he led the Huskers to an undefeated national championship run (34-0), marking the beginning of an era of dominance.
John Cook’s Incredible Achievements at Nebraska
Cook spent 25 seasons at Nebraska, where he established the program as a powerhouse in women’s volleyball. Here are some of his most impressive accomplishments:
- Four NCAA National Championships: 2000, 2006, 2015, and 2017.
- 15 Conference Championships: Between the Big 12 and Big Ten, Cook’s teams dominated year after year.
- 72 All-Americans coached under his leadership.
- Five Olympians trained under him.
- Three-time AVCA National Coach of the Year (2000, 2005, 2023).
- USA Volleyball All-Time Great Coach Award recipient (2008).
- AVCA Hall of Fame inductee (2017).
One of Cook’s biggest contributions to the sport was helping Nebraska break multiple attendance records. The Huskers set a world record for a women’s sporting event when 92,003 fans packed Memorial Stadium on August 30, 2023, proving that Nebraska volleyball isn’t just a program—it’s a movement.
Family Life and Personal Details
John Cook is a family man through and through. He has been married to Wendy Cook, a former All-American volleyball player at San Diego State, for several decades. Together, they have two children, Lauren and Taylor.
Their daughter, Lauren Cook, followed in her father’s footsteps, playing as a setter for UCLA in 2009, where she won National Freshman of the Year before transferring to Nebraska to finish her career. The Cook family even has a horse named Bud, adding a little extra charm to their life outside of volleyball.
At 68 years old, Cook has built a comfortable life with an estimated net worth of $2 million (as of 2025). His financial success comes from his long and decorated coaching career, endorsements, and speaking engagements.
The Future of Nebraska Volleyball: Enter Dani Busboom Kelly
As Cook steps away from the game, Nebraska has entrusted Dani Busboom Kelly to carry on his legacy. At 39 years old, she is a Nebraska native who played under Cook before becoming a successful coach herself.
Busboom Kelly led Louisville to three Final Fours and two national championship appearances (2022 & 2024) before returning to Nebraska. She has signed a six-year contract to lead the Cornhuskers into the future.
With Cook’s influence still deeply embedded in the program, Nebraska volleyball is in great hands. Fans can expect Busboom Kelly to build on the championship culture that Cook spent decades creating.
Nebraska volleyball fans, let’s hear from you! What are your favorite John Cook moments? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s celebrate the incredible career of a true coaching legend.
