For Immediate Release

Contact: Daniel Wackershauser, Marketing and PR Specialist
Phone: 608.822.2303
Mail: 1800 Bronson Blvd., Fennimore, WI 53809
Date of Release: November 19, 2025

Clay target team finishes strong with fourth-place finish at nationals

Bunker Hill, Illinois -

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College’s Clay Target Team wrapped up a strong season this fall, earning a third-place conference finish and placing fourth at the USA College Clay Target League National Championship in Bunker Hill, Illinois.

Competing in a league that includes two-year and four-year institutions from across the country, Southwest Tech was placed in the league’s largest competitive division, determined by roster size. With 25 student-athletes, the Chargers found themselves matched against powerhouse programs, including Lindenwood University.

“We did really well, especially considering the level of competition,” said Matt Schneider, co-coach and advisor.

The season’s highlight came earlier this month at the national championship, where more than 20 colleges from across the country competed. Each athlete shot 100 targets per day across two days, with the top five individual scores creating each team’s total out of 1,000 possible targets. Southwest Tech missed the podium by just two targets, securing a fourth-place national finish.

Despite the narrow margin, co-coach Dan Imhoff said the team’s focus, discipline and maturity stood out. “When we got off the bus Sunday morning, every single athlete knew the assignment,” Imhoff said. “They locked in and gave us everything they had. Not one person was there just for the trip—they all cared deeply about how they performed.”

Individually, the Chargers produced standout finishes throughout the season. At nationals, Carter Johnston tied for fourth overall and Eli Muckler tied for fifth. During the regular season, Johnston finished second in conference, and teammates Memphis Miller and Jordan Bomkamp tied for third. Maya Schroeder earned a top-10 finish among female competitors.

Schneider noted that coaching at a two-year college brings unique challenges—and advantages. “With our team members being with us for one or two-years, our roster changes dramatically from season to season compared to some universities,” he said. “We are always impressed how well we compete, and this year’s team met and exceeded every expectation we set. They are a great group!”

The team’s annual national trip also plays a major role in building community among students from different academic programs. For many, it is their first opportunity to travel out of state or participate in a collegiate-level competition. “We provide more than just shooting experience,” Imhoff said. “For some students, it’s their first time staying at a hotel or traveling outside the region. They build friendships, confidence and memories they’ll carry with them long after they leave Southwest Tech.”

The team will compete again this spring in a five-week virtual season beginning in March.

| Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is one of 16 institutions that comprise the Wisconsin Technical College System. The college was recently named the winner of the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. Southwest Tech offers more than 60 programs in a wide variety of disciplines. Courses are offered on campus, online, HyFlex and in a blended format. The college provides apprenticeship, certificate, technical diploma, and associate degree programs that respond to district workforce needs and prepare student for family-sustaining jobs and career advancement. |