2026 Preseason Preview: Olney Cubs

OLNEY, Texas (KAUZ) - The Olney Cubs are entering their second season under Head Coach Dustin Altmiller.

In his first year, Altmiller led the Cubs to a 3-7 record, including a 1-4 mark in district play. Now, with a new alignment and a fresh season ahead, Olney is looking to take the next step forward.

Altmiller says that change started early for the Cubs.

“We lived in the weight room kind of thing this spring and this summer. We did a lot of speed and agility work, not just out there running, gassers and everything else, sprinting, trying to get faster, a lot of plyo work. We really tried to get the kids to buy in that we want us to be some of the strongest, fastest kids, not just football-wise, but program-wise,” Coach Altmiller said.

That buy-in has been a major emphasis for the coaching staff.

Junior Lineman Jacobi Esquivel has seen that work firsthand, both in the weight room and on the field, as Altmiller continues to push the Cubs.

“A lot of strength work and speed. So it’s like we all got stronger, faster, and more aggressive. He’s worked with us, worked us hard, and then had high hopes. So it kind of builds everyone up,” Esquivel said.

For the Cubs, turning things around won’t happen overnight. Instead, the focus is on making steady progress each day and building the habits needed to take that next step.

“We’re still looking to get 1% better, but now it’s those little things. It’s finding that work, finding that 1%, and going to get better at it. And that’s really what it’s going to take: just that buy-in, that consistency, and just, again, win the day, taking it a day at a time,” Coach Altmiller said.