Success for the Sequim High School Equestrian Team isn't measured only by ribbons and trophies, it's built through dedication, teamwork, and a tradition that continues to grow with each new generation of riders. The 2026 season was another standout year for the Wolves, culminating in a District Team Championship, the program's fifth since 2016, adding to championship titles earned in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Team members also represented Sequim with pride at the Washington State High School Equestrian Championships and the Pacific Northwest Invitational Challenge, competing against many of the region's top riders.
At the state championships, Sequim riders earned top finishes across multiple disciplines. The freestyle drill team of Katelynn Sharpe, Lila Torey, Asha Swanberg, and Paisley Morris placed ninth. Katelynn and Asha finished 11th in Working Pairs, while Kenzi Winters and Lucas Seeyle placed 19th. Katelynn earned an eighth-place finish in Dressage and 13th in Keyhole, while Kenzi placed 16th in Saddleseat. Asha had an outstanding state performance, placing third in Steer Daubing and fifth in Reining, and teamed with Katelynn to finish 16th in Cattle Sorting.
Asha continued her success at the Pacific Northwest Invitational Challenge, where the top five equestrian teams from Washington face the top five teams from Oregon. She placed third in Steer Daubing and sixth in Reining, representing both Sequim and Washington with excellence.
Behind the results is a program built on relationships that often span generations. This year's team included Asha, following in the footsteps of her older sister, Libby Swanberg. Both sisters have been dedicated members of the program and each has served as team captain. Lucas also continued a family tradition after his sister, Joanna Seelye, competed for Sequim in previous years. Lucas was recognized this season with the District Exceptional Athlete Award, honoring his enthusiasm, kindness, and positive spirit.
For senior Katelynn, the season marked the culmination of four years of leadership both on and off the horse. In addition to serving as Drill Team Captain for the equestrian team, she was active in leadership at Sequim High School and a member of the school choir. Her eighth-place finish in Dressage at the state championships highlighted a remarkable final season.
The program's success is also rooted in the people who support it behind the scenes. While Head Coach Katie Newton has guided the team for many years, she credits the program's accomplishments to the dedicated coaching staff and volunteers who invest countless hours each season. Advisor and Timed Events Coach Bettina Hoesel, Administrative Coach Misty Gilbertson, Assistant Coach Cori Youngblood, and numerous assistant coaches have all played an important role in building one of the state's strongest equestrian programs.
That spirit of support extends beyond the current roster. Former team members frequently return to help coach and mentor younger riders, while younger siblings continue the traditions started by those who came before them. The result is a program where experience is passed from one generation to the next, strengthening the team year after year.
The Sequim Equestrian Team's continued success shows the commitment of its student-athletes, coaches, families, and volunteers. Together, they have built more than a championship program; they have built a lasting legacy that continues to inspire the next generation of riders.