For Nebraska Volleyball fans, John Cook is far more than just a coach—he is the man who helped build a dynasty, guided countless athletes to greatness, and inspired an entire state. Now, his legacy has been permanently etched into history with the unveiling of a bronze statue outside the Bob Devaney Sports Center.
The ceremony drew a crowd of fans, alumni, and former players, all eager to honor the man who transformed Nebraska into the gold standard of college volleyball. As the curtain fell, the bronze figure of Cook was revealed—calm, determined, and confident, just as fans remember him during his legendary coaching career.
Cook’s journey with Nebraska began in 2000, when he succeeded the great Terry Pettit. Many wondered if anyone could carry on Pettit’s success. Cook didn’t just carry it forward—he elevated it. In his more than two decades in Lincoln, Cook led the Huskers to four national championships (2000, 2006, 2015, and 2017), cementing Nebraska as one of the most dominant programs in NCAA history.
Beyond the trophies, Cook’s impact reached deeper. He built a culture centered on discipline, teamwork, and resilience. He often reminded his players to “dream big” and prepared them not only to win matches but to succeed beyond volleyball. Many of his athletes went on to compete at the professional level, represent Team USA, or become successful coaches, carrying forward his philosophy.
The statue itself is rich in symbolism. Positioned right outside the Bob Devaney Center—where Nebraska recorded sell-out streaks and unforgettable victories—it serves as a daily reminder of Cook’s influence. For young fans who dream of wearing the Husker jersey, the monument is proof that greatness can be achieved through commitment and belief. For longtime supporters, it’s a nostalgic nod to the many nights Devaney roared with victory chants.
During the unveiling, Cook gave a short but heartfelt speech. In typical fashion, he redirected the spotlight away from himself and back to his players, staff, and Husker Nation. “This isn’t just about me,” he said. “It’s about Nebraska Volleyball and what we all built together.” His words captured the humility and team-first spirit that defined his career.
Former players in attendance reflected on his unique style—tough yet caring, demanding yet supportive. They spoke of how he pushed them beyond their limits while always reminding them why they played: for each other, for Nebraska, and for the love of the game.
The event ended in applause, with fans chanting Cook’s name one last time outside the arena he helped make legendary. As the sun set over Lincoln, the bronze statue gleamed, symbolizing both the end of an era and the continuation of a legacy.
In sports, statues are rarely about the person alone. They are about what that person represents. John Cook’s statue is not just a likeness of a coach—it is a symbol of excellence, resilience, and unity. It honors a man who gave his best to Nebraska, and in turn, inspired Nebraska to believe in greatness.
John Cook built a dynasty. Now, his story is forever told in bronze.
