Coming Home: Coach Dustin Altmiller Takes the Helm at Olney ISD

For Dustin Altmiller, the return to Olney isn’t just about football. It’s about coming home.

The 1998 Olney High School graduate, who once wore Cub colors himself, is back to lead the school’s athletic department as Athletic Director and Head Football Coach. After years of building programs elsewhere, Coach Altmiller has circled back to the town where his love for the game first took root.

“It’s about faith in each other and getting better each day,” Altmiller said of his plans for the program. “That’s what we’re going to build here.”

Olney ISD’s athletic department has weathered its share of storms in recent years. The departure of Coach Jody Guy, who rebuilt Cub football and snapped a 12-year losing streak, left a hole that was hard to fill. His successor, Chris Tobola, resigned earlier this year following months of controversy and community pressure over allegations of mistreatment of players.

Coach Altmiller’s hiring feels to many like a break in the clouds. With his local roots and proven track record, he represents stability, optimism, and the possibility of a fresh start.

Coach Altmiller’s journey back to Olney took him first through Texas Tech University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree, and then to Eastern Kentucky University, where he completed a master’s in athletic administration.

Coach Altmiller comes to OHS with a wealth of experience, helping build the Benbrook High School football program from the ground up with many successful seasons under his belt. He held the position of Offensive Coordinator before taking over his position at OISD.

Coach Altmiller comes home to Olney with wife Becky, son Hayden who will attend the University of North Dakota in the fall and daughter Kailyn who is attending Olney High School as a junior.

Coach Altmiller said his plan is for the Cub football team “to build faith in each other” and get better each day.

At a recent scrimmage, the difference in Coach Altmiller’s coaching style could already be seen: players were getting plenty of encouragement, positive feedback as well as one-on-one coaching not only from Coach Altmiller but from the entire coaching staff. The OISD Athletic Department is fully staffed for the first time since Coach Guy stepped away.

Cub football players seemed to be in high spirits – as much as one could be under the Texas sun in August – and appeared to be pushing themselves, wanting to be the best they can for a coach they respect.

Coach Altmiller said team captains have not been nailed down yet but the starting quarterback would be Tucker Cortinez. Mr. Cortinez has a strong, accurate arm and should do great at the head of the team.

Have a great year, Cubs!