North Texas, February 3, 2026
The upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina heralds the participation of numerous talented athletes from North Texas. Among them are figure skaters Amber Glenn and Emily Chan, ice hockey player Hannah Bilka, and bobsledder Boone Niederhofer. Their remarkable achievements reflect the growing presence and potential of winter sports in a region traditionally known for warmer climates. As excitement builds for their Olympic appearances, the community is encouraged to support these athletes and celebrate their dedication and resilience in achieving their dreams.
North Texas Athletes Shine at the 2026 Winter Olympics
The upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, Italy, promise to spotlight the remarkable talent emerging from North Texas in winter sports. This year, several athletes with Texas roots are set to showcase their skills on the global stage, contributing to a narrative of resilience and determination that resonates deeply within the local community. With a spirit of innovation, these individuals exemplify the determination and hard work characteristic of North Texas.
This celebration of our region’s athletes serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering an environment that encourages participation in diverse sports, even those typically associated with colder climates. The ability to compete at such high levels speaks volumes about the potential for growth and excellence within the local sports community. As we await the start of the games on February 6, the excitement surrounding these athletes builds, reflecting the growth of winter sports in a traditionally warmer region.
Athletes Competing for Glory
Several North Texas athletes have secured their spots in various winter sports events, showcasing personal achievements and the region’s developing presence in these disciplines.
Amber Glenn of Plano to Compete in Women’s Figure Skating
Amber Glenn, a 26-year-old from Plano, Texas, is set to make her Olympic debut in women’s singles figure skating. She secured her spot by winning her third consecutive U.S. Figure Skating Championship in January 2026. Glenn is expected to be a strong contender for a medal in Milan.
Emily Chan of McKinney Joins U.S. Pairs Figure Skating Team
Emily Chan, originally from McKinney, Texas, will represent the United States in pairs figure skating alongside her partner, Spencer Akira Howe. The duo has been skating together for seven years and earned their Olympic spot after overcoming challenges at the U.S. Nationals. Chan’s background in gymnastics and dance has significantly enhanced her skating skills.
Hannah Bilka of Coppell on U.S. Women’s Ice Hockey Team
Hannah Bilka, a forward from Coppell, Texas, is part of the U.S. Women’s Ice Hockey team. Bilka has medaled three times with the U.S. at the World Championships, including a gold in 2023, and won an NCAA championship with Ohio State in 2024.
Boone Niederhofer of Midland Selected for U.S. Bobsled Team
Boone Niederhofer, a 32-year-old from Midland, Texas, has been named to the U.S. four-man bobsled team for the 2026 Winter Olympics. A former wide receiver at Texas A&M University, Niederhofer has made a remarkable transition to bobsledding and is set to make his Olympic debut in Milan.
Kelly Delka of Denton to Compete for Puerto Rico in Skeleton
Kelly Delka, originally from Denton, Texas, will represent Puerto Rico in the skeleton event. Delka is Puerto Rico’s only winter Olympian in 2026 and is making her second appearance at the Winter Games.
Jake Oettinger of Dallas Stars Named to U.S. Men’s Ice Hockey Team
Jake Oettinger, a goaltender for the Dallas Stars, has been selected to represent the United States in men’s ice hockey at the 2026 Winter Olympics. His selection underscores his remarkable achievements, including being the first goalie in the expansion era since 1967-98 to make an NHL debut in the round leading to the Stanley Cup Final.
Additional North Texas Athletes in the 2026 Winter Olympics
In addition to those highlighted, other athletes with North Texas ties competing in the games include:
- Radek Faksa (Czech Republic, third-line center)
- Thomas Harley (Canada, defense)
- Miro Heiskanen (Finland, defense)
- Roope Hintz (Finland, center)
- Mikko Rantanen (Finland, right wing)
- Esa Lindell (Finland, defense)
These athletes further illustrate the diverse talent that North Texas has to offer in the increasingly popular domain of winter sports.
Key Features of North Texas Athletes in the 2026 Winter Olympics
| Athlete | Event | Country Represented | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amber Glenn | Women’s Figure Skating | United States | Three-time U.S. Figure Skating Champion |
| Emily Chan | Pairs Figure Skating | United States | Seven years of partnership with Spencer Akira Howe |
| Hannah Bilka | Women’s Ice Hockey | United States | Gold medalist at the 2023 World Championships |
| Boone Niederhofer | Bobsled | United States | Former Texas A&M wide receiver |
| Kelly Delka | Skeleton | Puerto Rico | Puerto Rico’s only winter Olympian |
| Jake Oettinger | Men’s Ice Hockey | United States | First goalie to make an NHL debut in Stanley Cup Final era |
Conclusion
The achievements of these North Texas athletes heading into the 2026 Winter Olympics are nothing short of inspiring. Their dedication, resilience, and competitive spirit are exemplary and set a standard for aspiring athletes in the region. As these competitors gear up for their Olympic experience, it’s a great time for local residents to rally behind them and support the burgeoning winter sports scene in North Texas. Engaging with and encouraging local talent can foster a brighter economic future, showcasing how sports can bring communities together and drive collective success.
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