A legendary figure in Nebraska's sports history has been remembered as a trailblazer who shaped generations of athletes. Bill Olson, the iconic former baseball coach at Omaha Northwest and celebrated member of the Nebraska High School Athletics Hall of Fame, passed away at the age of 85. Known for his unmatched dedication to the game, Olson spent three and a half decades guiding young players toward greatness. Under his leadership, the Omaha Northwest Huskies achieved remarkable success, including six state championships.

Olson's influence extended far beyond the high school level. In 1983, his Huskies team was ranked first nationwide among high school programs. Over the course of his career, he amassed over 1,500 victories, maintaining an impressive winning percentage above .700. His accomplishments also included eight American Legion state titles, with a notable third-place finish in the World Series in 1985. Recognizing his impact on athlete development, the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee honored him as Development Coach of the Year in 1997.

The legacy of Bill Olson continues through the achievements of his son, Gregg, who excelled both as a player and in professional baseball. As a pitcher for Omaha Northwest, Gregg secured four state championships and became a first-round draft pick in Major League Baseball (MLB). During his illustrious career, he played for ten MLB teams, earning All-Star status in 1990 and being named American League Rookie of the Year in 1989. Inducted into both the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame and the Nebraska High School Athletics Hall of Fame, Gregg carries forward the values instilled by his father. Through their combined efforts, the Olsons have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring countless individuals to pursue excellence with passion and integrity.