In May 2021, Living Snoqualmie wrote about Mount Si High School’s only female wrestler, Aynslee Hester, and how she carved out space for herself in a sport where she was often the only girl on the mat.
Four years later, the young athlete who pinned boys, chased tournaments across the state and beyond, and worked her way from newcomer to state and national podiums is returning to the sport in a new role. Her story comes full circle this November with her appointment as head wrestling coach at Eastside Catholic School.
Coach Hester joins the Eastside Catholic Athletics staff with a winning mentality and a history of development through relentless work ethic, discipline and leadership on the mat—qualities that quickly made her one of the top female wrestlers in the region.
“Aynslee is incredibly well-respected in the wrestling world—not just for her success on the mat, but for the way she pours into the sport and its community,” said Executive Athletic Director Jeff Feller. “Her knowledge, presence and commitment to elevating young athletes make her an exceptional addition to Eastside Catholic. We’re thrilled to have someone so deeply connected, accomplished and driven leading our program.”
Following a successful career at Mount Si High School in both wrestling and swimming, Coach Hester made an impact at the collegiate level at Colorado Mesa University, where she wrestled in the 155-pound weight class. During her freshman season, she posted a 12-2 record, went 6-0 in dual meets, earned five wins by pin and five by technical fall.
Her early collegiate accomplishments reflect her strong mat awareness, explosive offense, and ability to transition seamlessly from high school to national-level college competition.
At the helm of the EC wrestling program, Coach Hester brings fresh energy and an athlete-first mindset, with proven experience as both a competitor and a mentor. Her vision for success at the program focuses on developing a competitive, inclusive and character-driven wrestling culture rooted in discipline, teamwork and integrity.
“I’m excited to join this growing program and look forward to shaping its future direction. We have a strong core of upper-class athletes who possess solid fundamentals,” said Hester. “My primary goal is to build on this foundation, creating a program that is both competitive and sustainable. Just as important is my commitment to developing our athletes holistically: using the discipline of wrestling to instill confidence, resilience and character.”
Eastside Catholic warmly welcomes Coach Hester to the EC community. They are confident that her expertise and passion for the sport will elevate the program to new heights and positively influence the young student-athletes under her guidance.
