College of Saint Mary to honor volleyball coach John Cook at Ignite the Flame luncheon
OMAHA, Neb. – John Cook, co-owner and general manager of the Omaha Supernovas and former head volleyball coach at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, will be honored at Ignite the Flame, College of Saint Mary’s annual fundraising luncheon, April 16.
In its fourth year, the fundraiser supports women’s athletics, showcases the achievements of CSM’s Flames athletes and honors a trailblazer in women’s sports.
“Coach John Cook is a true trailblazer and an exceptional leader whose impact on women’s sports reaches far beyond the court,” said Robbie Shay, CSM director of athletics. “Through his dedication, integrity and vision, he has inspired generations of female athletes. His influence extends beyond athletics, empowering women to become confident leaders in every aspect of life.”
Cook served as the Nebraska Cornhuskers head volleyball coach from 2000 until 2024 when he retired. Under his leadership, the team won four national championships and made 12 NCAA semifinals appearances.
He finished his career with 883 wins and 176 losses, making him one of the most successful coaches in Division I volleyball history. He earned three National Coach of the Year awards.
Cook played an instrumental role in expanding the volleyball program’s visibility. In 2023, the team played an outdoor match in Memorial Stadium with over 92,000 spectators. The event gained worldwide attention as the largest crowd to attend a women’s sporting event anywhere in the world.
In August 2025, Cook became co-owner and general manager of the Supernovas, a professional women’s volleyball team that competes in Major League Volleyball (MLV).
Ana Bellinghausen, digital director at Hurrdat Sports, will serve as the event’s emcee, and Deb Denbeck, president of Partnership 4 Kids, will be the honorary chair. Ignite the Flame will also include a testimonial from a current CSM Flames athlete.
The luncheon is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 16 at the Lied Fitness Center Fieldhouse at CSM located at 7000 Mercy Road.
Purchase Ignite the Flame tickets or become a sponsor at csm.edu/ignite.
