By Ailyn Adame
On Jan. 10, the Omaha Supernovas attracted more than 13,000 fans to the CHI Health Center, setting a professional volleyball attendance record. Across town at Baxter Arena, LOVB Nebraska is building its fan base in its second season, drawing more than 1,000 fans per match.
Sports reporter Ana Bellinghausen, digital director at Hurrdat Sports, said the women’s sports team has exploded in Nebraska.
The LOVB Nebraska team celebrating a great kill from #8 Kimberly Drewniok against LOVB Madison on February 22, 2026. Photo by: Ailyn Adame
“People are wanting to be at these games. It’s not just an afterthought anymore,” Bellinghausen said. “I think women’s sports are becoming more toward the forefront of sports in general, and the landscape shifting that way has been incredible to see over the past five years.”
The growing attendance signals increased visibility for women athletes, both professionally and at the collegiate level. University of Nebraska Omaha volleyball player Sarah Galligan says there is no place like Nebraska.
The Omaha Supernovas celebrate after winning the second set 25-20, against Atlanta Vibe on February 26, 2026. Photo by: Ailyn Adame
Galligan is also part of She Sports, a digital platform co-founded by a LOVB athlete that connects professional and collegiate athletes with younger athletes across multiple sports. The app allows users to access mentorship, advice and community support.
“I wish that I had an app like that when I was younger and growing up,” Galligan said. “Sometimes you feel like everything is going wrong and you’re alone, but it is so realistic that so many people are going through similar things as well.”
As professional teams continue to grow and digital platforms expand, Omaha’s women’s sports movement is extending beyond the arena reaching the next generation both in the stands and online.
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