Cheer on These Talented Texans Competing at the 2026 Winter Olympics

Meet Texas’s Inspiring Olympians At the 2026 Winter Games

The thrill of the Winter Olympics is just around the corner, set to unfold in the breathtaking backdrop of northern Italy from February 6-22, 2026. Out of the 2,900 athletes from across the globe, an impressive 232 represent the United States, including four talented athletes with deep Texan roots. This is our chance to celebrate and cheer for these inspiring individuals as they take their skills from the Lone Star State to the world stage!

The Lone Stars of Winter

Boone Niederhofer, Hannah Bilka, Emily Chan, and Amber Glenn are ready to showcase their dedication and talent. Each athlete brings unique stories and dreams to the Olympics, making this a momentous occasion for Texans everywhere.

Boone Niederhofer: From Football Fields to Bobsled Tracks

At 32, San Antonio native Boone Niederhofer will represent the USA in bobsledding. Growing up in a football-loving family, he transitioned from being a wide receiver at Texas A&M to taking on a sport that demands sheer speed and teamwork. Following an ACL injury that cut his football career short, Niederhofer took a leap of faith into bobsledding, inspired by the explosive speed he honed on the field. With degrees in petroleum engineering and experience in the oil industry, he’s a true Texas athlete with a rich background.

Hannah Bilka: The Ice Hockey Star

Twenty-four-year-old Hannah Bilka hails from Coppell and is set to compete in women’s ice hockey. Her journey started at six when she dove into a male-dominated sport due to limited opportunities for girls’ hockey in Texas. Bilka not only excelled as a player but also became a national champion with the Ohio State Buckeyes. Looking ahead, she aims to make a significant impact on the ice as she steps onto the Olympic stage.

Emily Chan: The Artist on Ice

Emily Chan, 28, grew up in Pasadena and is making waves in pairs figure skating. Balancing academic success as a valedictorian while pursuing her figure skating dreams, Chan's artistic flair shines through her routines. Her partnership with Spencer Akira Howe has brought them numerous accolades, showcasing the beauty of their athleticism combined with creativity. Emily’s dedication to the sport and her studies illustrate the commitment required of Olympic athletes.

Amber Glenn: Skating for Change

As one of the top contenders in singles figure skating, 26-year-old Amber Glenn is a Plano native who began her skating journey at five. Now, she’s making her Olympic debut, having already amassed significant achievements, including national titles. Glenn's openness about her identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ community adds a refreshing perspective and underscores the importance of representation in sports. She aims to inspire others as she competes for gold on the Olympic stage.

Support Your Athletes

To catch the thrilling performances of these four Texas athletes, fans can tune in to NBC and its affiliate networks. Events will be streaming on platforms like Peacock, ensuring that everyone can cheer on their favorites whether at home or on the go.

The Wider Texas Impact on Winter Sports

It's fascinating to witness Texans making notable contributions to sports that aren’t traditionally associated with the state. As these athletes take the spotlight, their achievements illustrate the diverse talent emerging from Texas and the potential to shine on the world stage. In turn, they inspire young Texans and serve as a reminder that ambition knows no boundaries.

Join the Celebration

As we eagerly await the 2026 Winter Olympics, consider how you can support local athletes. From attending sports events in areas like the San Antonio community to engaging with local Olympic-related activities, you can play a part in elevating Texas’s presence on the Olympic arena. Celebrate the spirit of competition and community as these athletes make Texas proud!