Ellensburg Celebrates Senior Standouts: A Legacy of Grit and Leadership
ELLENSBURG, WA — As the academic year moves toward its final seasons, Ellensburg High School is proud to honor two seniors who embody the very best of Bulldog athletics: Yutong Liang and Silas Stewman. While their paths through the EHS athletic department have been unique, both have left an indelible mark on their respective programs through character, work ethic, and a commitment to excellence.
The Heart of a Runner: Yutong Liang
For three years in Cross Country and four years with the Track and Field team, Yutong Liang has been a pillar of the both programs. Her journey has been defined by a rare level of dedication and resilience, having navigated the physical and mental toll of both injuries and personal hardships to remain a constant for her team.
Coaches Josephine Camarillo and Jeff Hashimoto have watched Yutong grow into a foundational leader. Beyond the miles logged on the trails and the track, she is recognized as a compassionate teammate who cares deeply for those around her. Her ability to lead with empathy while maintaining her trademark resilience has set a standard for the underclassmen following in her footsteps.
A Force of Nature: Silas Stewman
Silas Stewman has authored one of the most remarkable stories in recent Bulldog history, excelling across Football, Wrestling, and Track and Field.
In the wrestling room, Silas achieved the near-impossible. Joining the team as a junior with zero prior experience, he utilized a “rare combination of natural athleticism and relentless hard work” to transform into an All-Conference level 285lb wrestler. Wrestling Coach Marc Eylar describes Silas as a “cornerstone of our team culture,” noting the sharp sense of humor and positive attitude he brings to every practice.
His dominance carries over to the gridiron, where Football Coach Zeke Fife has seen him evolve through three years of relentless effort. “He’s worked extremely hard to get faster and stronger,” Coach Fife noted, praising the leader and teammate Silas has become, “and we have loved having him as a leader in our program.”
Silas is equally disciplined in the classroom, excelling as a WIAA Scholar-Athlete. Whether he is throwing in the spring for Track and Field or anchoring the defensive line, his “mental fortitude refuses to accept mediocrity”.
Signing to the Next Level
The impact of these two athletes will continue at the collegiate level, as both have officially signed to compete for prestigious programs next fall.
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- Yutong has signed with Vassar College, where she will compete in Track and Field as a hurdler. Her move to the collegiate ranks is a testament to the dedication she demonstrated over four years as a Bulldog, overcoming injury and hardship to reach the next level.
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- Silas has signed to play football for Eastern Washington University. A dominant force on the defensive line, he joins the Eagles after a meteoric rise that saw him become an All-Conference talent in record time.
Looking Ahead
As these two seniors prepare for the next chapter of their lives, their impact remains. Whether it was Yutong’s four-year display of grit or Silas’s relentless drive to improve, both athletes have defined what it means to be a Bulldog.
“Silas possesses the character, work ethic, and intellect to succeed in any environment,” said Coach Eylar. The same can be said for Yutong, whose leadership and resilience have shaped the culture of Ellensburg athletics for years to come.
Photo: Danny Rominger, Valley Sports Photography
