On Wednesday, January 24th 2024, thousands of volleyball fans flooded the CHI Health Center to watch the opening night of the Omaha Supernovas, the pro volleyball team in Omaha, Nebraska. Fans anxiously watched as the players passed the volleyball amongst each other, periodically spiking the ball to the ground of the other side. The crowd roared every single time the team won a set.
The team is led by head coach, Laura “Bird” Kuhn and assistant coach, Thomas Robson during the 2025 season. The roster includes two returners, five players that have played for other pro volleyball teams, two newcomers, and seven players that have just completed their college volleyball season. With seven wins already this year, the team is looking for a season of success.
“There’s a lot of new faces, but this group is fun,” head coach Laura “Bird” Kuhn said in an interview with Hurrdat Sports. “This group is very special and I think the coolest part is that these players have played against each other and know of each other, but to see them come in, train, and watch their personalities and just them as people get to know each other on and off the court its just fun and awesome for our sport.”
The Supernovas are a part of the Pro Volleyball Federation. As the Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF) is the leading professional volleyball league in the United States, it has set a standard for the sport, offering the largest number of franchises and prize money, incomparable attendance, and numerous hours of broadcast coverage. The PVF serves as a vital link between the NCAA and international athletes, creating the best possible game for viewers as well as increasing the popularity of the sport of volleyball. After winning the Pro Volleyball Federation Championships in 2024, the Supernovas have announced that they will be leaving the PVF concluding the 2025 season.
Volleyball is a very popular sport in Nebraska, due to the success of the Nebraska Husker Volleyball team. With 33 wins and only three losses, as well as making it to the NCAA semi final for the NCAA national championships during the 2024 season, many Husker fans admit to watching volleyball rather than football. Volleyball fans from around the state eagerly watch the pro team as well, with it including some Nebraska Volleyball alumni, such as outside hitters Ally Batenhorst and Lindsay Krause.
“It was really fun watching these athletes play at such a high level,” junior Owen Lewis said. “I really enjoy watching Nebraska Volleyball, so seeing some of the past players from the team was really cool too.”
The Supernovas next game is February 20, 2025 at the Viejas Arena in San Diego, California. Fans look forward to watching their next game, proudly wearing pink, purple, blue and navy.
