SEATTLE, Wash. – With the 56th pick in the second round of this year’s MLS SuperDraft, former West Seattle Junction FC defender Asher Hestad has been selected by the Colorado Rapids. Hestad, who made four starts for the Blues in 2025, was named to the 2025 Big Ten All-Freshman and NCAA College Cup All-Tournament Teams after becoming a mainstay in the University of Washington’s defense, who won their first NCAA Men’s Soccer National Championship just three days ago.
A local to Seattle, who developed through Seattle United and the Seattle Sounders Academy, Hestad becomes West Seattle Junction FC’s first-ever MLS SuperDraft selection in club history.
The defender was a key contributor to the University of Washington’s historic run to this year’s National Championship, featuring in 15 matches with 12 starts while adding a pair of goals and an assist on the year.
“I could not be happier that Asher has been drafted by the Colorado Rapids. His impact extends far beyond his accomplishments with Junction FC and the University of Washington,” said General Manager Cory Hinthorn, speaking on behalf of the club’s leadership. “He is also a tremendous person who cares deeply about his teammates and his community. I can’t wait to see where his journey takes him next, and the entire Junction family will be cheering him on every step of the way.”
Written by Ben Larson
