University of Mary sophomore Morgan Jensen brought home a historic victory for Bismarck and the Marauders. At the USA Clay Target League College National Championships in Illinois, Jensen hit an impressive 197 of 200 clay targets to claim the 2026 Female USA National Championship.
The win marks the first individual national title for the University of Mary’s Clays program and underscores the rapid rise of a team that is only in its third season of competition. Jensen out‑performed 62 other female shooters and placed fourth overall among 187 athletes, demonstrating the skill and composure that define a true champion.
Local roots, national triumph
Born and raised in Bismarck, Jensen’s achievement resonates deeply with the community that has supported her journey from local ranges to the national stage. “Morgan Jensen winning the title of Female National Champion is an accomplishment that doesn’t happen by accident,” said UMary Head Clays Coach Mark Sandness. “It takes commitment, countless hours of practice, focus, and the ability to perform when it matters most.”
Sandness praised Jensen’s dedication, noting that her disciplined training regimen and strong work ethic have set a new standard for the program. The coach added that Jensen’s success will inspire younger athletes in the region to pursue excellence in shooting sports.
Team success alongside individual glory
While Jensen’s individual performance captured headlines, the Marauders as a whole also posted a solid showing. Seven University of Mary shooters traveled to Illinois, and the team finished ninth out of 25 competing schools. This top‑ten finish reflects the rapid development of a program that began competing only three years ago.
The team’s progress highlights the growing popularity of clay‑target shooting in North Dakota and the Midwest, a sport that emphasizes precision, safety, and sportsmanship—values that align with the region’s strong family and faith traditions.
What this means for Bismarck and the University of Mary
Jensen’s national title brings positive attention to Bismarck’s athletic community and showcases the University of Mary’s commitment to building competitive, values‑driven programs. Local businesses and supporters have already begun celebrating the achievement, seeing it as a testament to the dedication of North Dakota’s youth.
Community leaders anticipate that Jensen’s success will encourage increased participation in shooting sports at the high‑school level, providing more opportunities for young athletes to develop discipline and focus—qualities that benefit both the individual and the broader community.
Looking ahead
As the 2026 season continues, Jensen and the Marauders will aim to build on their momentum, targeting higher team placements at future national events. With a strong foundation already in place, the University of Mary’s Clays program is poised to become a consistent contender on the national stage.
For Bismarck residents, Jensen’s triumph serves as a reminder that dedication and faith in one’s abilities can lead to extraordinary results, no matter how far the competition may travel.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
