The Natrona County High School Mustangs sealed an undefeated season on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, by defeating Cheyenne East 28–13 during the 4A Wyoming High School State Football Championships at War Memorial Stadium in Laramie.
The championship contest likely represents the final game of Steve Harshman’s storied tenure as head coach, bringing a close to his 36 years leading the team following his recent election as state superintendent of public instruction.
Harshman, who previously stepped away from teaching while maintaining his coaching duties at NCHS, gathered his team on the field after the final whistle to deliver an emotional farewell address. Reflecting on decades of mentorship, he thanked the players for their dedication throughout the championship campaign.
“We’ve really grown into a tight brotherhood,” Harshman said, addressing his squad on the turf at War Memorial Stadium.
“Whether you win the last one or lose the last one, it’s sad because you just love each other and I really appreciate you,” Harshman told the team. He concluded his remarks with a definitive declaration about his lifelong allegiance: “I am a Mustang until I die.”
The Mustangs secured a win over Cheyenne East during the championship game, establishing an attack that ultimately kept Cheyenne East at bay.
The 28–13 final score reflects the steady execution that propelled the Mustangs through a flawless regular and postseason schedule.
Harshman’s tenure on the Natrona County sidelines spans more than three decades, shaping generations of student-athletes in Casper.
Standing alongside retired assistant coach Tyrone Fittje on the field following the victory, Harshman shared a quiet moment celebrating the program’s latest milestone. Retired assistant coach Tyrone Fittje's presence showed the deep institutional roots Harshman planted during his 36 years at the helm.
As the season concludes, the championship stands as the final chapter of a legendary coaching career. The Natrona County administration will begin the process of evaluating candidates to succeed Harshman as the football program transitions into its next era.
