An apparatus for tensioning and threading an optical fiber includes a first roller, a second roller, a belt that wraps around the first and second rollers, and a third roller. The belt may be in direct physical contact with the first and second rollers. The third roller may be movable between an engaged and a disengaged configuration relative to the belt. Alternatively, the first roller, second roller, and belt may be movable between the engaged and the disengaged configuration relative to the third roller. Actuation from the disengaged to the engaged configuration captures an optical fiber between the third roller and the belt.