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Thomas Robson will take on an expanded role with the Omaha Supernovas this season. After serving as an assistant coach for the franchise’s first three seasons and stepping in as interim head coach during the 2026 campaign, Robson was recently named Associate Head Coach as he continues his tenure on Omaha’s coaching staff. Robson is the featured guest for this edition of Novas Sitdown, sharing his excitement about his new role, reflecting on what he learned over the summer and revealing which team he considers the Supernovas’ biggest rival.
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Q: How excited are you to take on the role of Associate Head Coach?
A: I am extremely excited and grateful to step into this role and continue building something special with the Supernovas organization!
Q: What has it been like working with Head Coach Chris McGown this offseason?
A: It has been fun getting to know him both through volleyball and away from the sport. We share a passion for travel, which helped us form a bond soon after meeting!
Q: How do the two of you complement each other as coaches?
A: We both want what is best for our athletes and the organization, so our communication and ability to bounce ideas off each other have been great!
Q: What was the biggest lesson you learned while serving as interim head coach last spring, and how will that experience help you heading into the 2027 season?
A: The biggest lesson I learned while serving as interim head coach was the importance of the staff around you. That experience was a great reminder that when I do my job to the best of my ability, it can alleviate a lot of stress for the head coach, who has twice as many things to worry about.
Q: Are there any specific areas of your coaching that you have intentionally worked to improve this offseason?
A: I have continued working on my communication skills while trying to be an active learner by asking plenty of questions. I have also enjoyed learning more about how the front office operates in all areas. I think having that knowledge gives me a greater appreciation and understanding of everything we are building in Omaha.
Q: The 2027 roster features returning Supernovas you have worked closely with, All-Stars from other teams and impressive international talent. What are you most looking forward to with this team?
A: Our culture. We have always built our teams around a culture of hard work, grit and a championship mentality. I am looking forward to seeing this group get into the gym and get after it.
Q: Based on your conversations with the players, what qualities are beginning to define this group?
A: I think this is going to be a relentless group.
Q: Which MLV expansion team are you most excited to visit and play against?
A: Minnesota Forge. That is the closest franchise to where I grew up and attended college, so my wife is already creating a Facebook page to organize group tickets. We should have a great Supernovas section there!
Q: Who do you consider the Supernovas’ biggest rival?
A: I think it is the Indy Ignite. Those matches always feature a high level of play, long rallies and crowds that really get into the action. I always look forward to playing them.
Q: What is your biggest volleyball pet peeve?
A: My biggest volleyball pet peeve is probably ankle socks.
Q: Do you have a specific pregame routine or superstition?
A: One routine I started before home matches last season was eating a grape Uncrustable. I think that will remain part of the routine this upcoming season.
Q: What makes Omaha special to you?
A: NovasNation is what makes Omaha so special. Being more than six hours away from our family can sometimes be difficult, but everyone in this community is so welcoming and friendly. It really helps us feel like we have a second family right here in Omaha!
Q: What is one Wisconsin tradition, food or custom that you miss? On the other hand, what is something from Nebraska that you wish you could bring to Wisconsin?
A: Real Wisconsin cheese curds. Hiro 88 has become a staple for my wife and me after a long road trip or whenever we want to enjoy a night out!
Q: What is your personal rule for life? It can be as serious or lighthearted as you would like. For example, “Always chase your dreams” or “Always order biscuits and gravy when they’re on the menu.”
A: “Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life,” and, “If you see someone without a smile, give them yours.” Those are two quotes that I really try to live by in both my professional and personal life!