Farson coach Applequist steps down after 10 years

Farson head football coach Trip Applequist has resigned after 10 seasons leading the Pronghorns.

Applequist confirmed his resignation via email to wyoming-football.com on Monday.

“It was an agonizing and difficult decision to step down as football coach,” Applequist wrote. “It has been a cherished experience and I have been so fortunate. I have had the opportunity to work with the most amazing and dedicated young men who have inspired the community and me personally. I have also been given the opportunity to work with an amazing coaching staff who are really the source of all the success that our program has seen. The support of the parents, administration, and community has been incredible.”

Applequist led the Pronghorns to two state championships and four appearances in title games in his decade as head coach. Combined, Farson has gone 66-29 with Applequist at the helm, including state championships and 11-0 seasons in both 2018 and 2020. Farson finished as runners-up in both 2016 and 2017.

Farson finished 3-4 last season, just missing the Class 1A six-man playoffs. The position was listed as open on Sweetwater County School District No. 1’s job listings for head coaches.

Applequist said he was interested in pursuing other passions, including a planned trip in June to climb Alaska’s Denali.

“The athletes deserve a coach that has the time and desire to commit to what it takes to be successful,” he wrote. ” … I am sad to be leaving football coaching behind, but excited about the possibilities ahead. I love high school football, and look forward to watching and cheering from the stands.”

Other programs in Wyoming seeking new head coaches this year are Rawlins, Glenrock and Cokeville. Meanwhile, Cheyenne South and Pinedale have hired new head coaches for the upcoming season. If you know of other head coaching changes in the state, please email me at pschmiedt@yahoo.com.

–patrick