Story by Omaha Supernovas Communication
OMAHA, Neb. – The Omaha Supernovas announced today that the team has parted ways with Head Coach Luka Slabe and promoted Thomas Robson to interim head coach for the remainder of the 2026 season. Blake Rawlins will remain on staff as assistant coach alongside Robson.
Following the season, Robson will resume his role as assistant coach after signing an extension with the franchise through the 2028 season.
“These decisions are never easy, but we felt a change was needed at this time to align with the expectations and direction of our organization,” Supernovas Co-Owner Kirk Thompson said. “We appreciate Luka’s contributions and wish him the best moving forward. As part of this franchise from the beginning, we have full confidence in Thomas as he steps in as interim head coach with a focus on reaching the MLV Championship in Dallas.”
“Thomas has been a big part of what we’ve built here, and we have full belief in him stepping into this role,” General Manager & Co-Owner John Cook said. “Seeing firsthand the way he works with this group has been impressive, and he embodies what the Supernovas culture is all about. He understands this team, has their trust, and brings a presence that fits exactly what we need right now. We’re confident in him leading this team, and we’re excited to have him continue as a key part of our staff moving forward.”
A rising figure in the sport, Robson has played an instrumental role in Omaha’s on-court success over the past three seasons, highlighted by the Supernovas winning the inaugural MLV Championship in 2024 and guiding a retooled roster to the 2025 MLV Regular Season Championship.
Robson began his coaching career in the NAIA ranks at Viterbo University as an assistant. The program compiled an 89-19 overall record across his four seasons, including two NAIA national semifinal appearances. He also helped develop nine All-Americans and three regional Players of the Year.
He later joined head coach Kelly Sheffield and the Wisconsin volleyball program as a volunteer assistant coach for the 2022 season, helping the Badgers secure their fourth consecutive Big Ten title and a 28-4 overall record. Wisconsin advanced to the NCAA Regional Final before falling in five sets to Pittsburgh.
The Supernovas (11-11) return to Kiewit Court at CHI Health Center Omaha this Friday, April 10, for the team’s “Volleyball After Dark Showcase.” The event will feature a UNK–Wayne State spring exhibition at 5 p.m., followed by the Supernovas taking on the Grand Rapids Rise at 8 p.m. CDT. Omaha will then host the Dallas Pulse on Sunday at 4 p.m. CDT.
Both matches will be broadcast statewide on Nebraska Public Media and can be heard on the Supernovas Radio Network, led by flagship station KCRO 660 AM.