Morgan Turner’s Dominant Fargo Run: A Look Back at Her 2023 National Title Victory (Full Video)
- J Q
- Mar 5
- 3 min read
In the summer of 2023, Morgan Turner made history on one of the biggest stages in high school wrestling. At just 15 years old, the Illinois standout stormed through the 16U Fargo Nationals, pinning and teching her way to the finals, where she secured a hard-fought national championship victory over Pennsylvania’s Jacqueline Bouzakis.
Now, in 2025, Turner has continued to build an impressive career, but her breakout performance at Fargo remains one of the defining moments of her journey. Let’s take a look back at her unforgettable title match.
The 2023 Fargo 16U Finals: Turner vs. Bouzakis
The final showdown between Morgan Turner and Jacqueline Bouzakis had all the makings of a classic—two of the top young wrestlers in the country, both with dominant runs through the bracket, meeting on the biggest stage at Fargo.
As the whistle blew, Turner wasted no time, firing off a shot instantly. But Bouzakis—a highly skilled wrestler from a well-known wrestling family—was ready. She countered Turner’s aggression with a big throw, sending the Illinois standout airborne for a two-point exposure.
It was the first time all tournament Turner had given up an early score, but she remained unfazed.
“She doesn’t need a break,” the commentary team noted. “Turner’s been an absolute hammer all tournament, and she’s not slowing down now.”
With the massive Fargo crowd erupting, Turner methodically battled back, controlling the hand-fighting exchanges and pushing the pace as the first period ended 2-2.
Turner Takes Over in the Second Period
Coming out of the break, Turner locked in on her strategy, favoring her underhook game and forcing Bouzakis into defensive positions. Bouzakis, who had scored on a counter attack earlier, struggled to generate her own offense.
With time winding down, criteria was in Turner’s favor, meaning Bouzakis needed to score to take the lead.
In the final 20 seconds, Bouzakis made one last push, looking for a step-out point. But Turner showed incredible mat awareness, keeping her feet in bounds and chewing up the clock in the closing seconds.
When the final whistle blew, it was official—Morgan Turner was a Fargo National Champion.
Final Score: 2-2 (Turner wins on criteria)
The moment solidified her as one of the nation’s top young stars and marked the beginning of what has since become a remarkable career.
Turner’s Path to the Championship
Turner’s run through Fargo 2023 was nothing short of dominant. She pinned or teched every opponent leading up to the finals, showcasing elite offensive firepower, relentless pressure, and an ability to finish matches quickly.
Her high-paced offense, ability to transition seamlessly from takedowns to turns, and calm under pressure made her one of the biggest stories of the tournament.
“She’s not just winning,” said one coach. “She’s putting the entire country on notice.”
Where Is She Now?
Now in 2025, Turner’s star has only risen. Since her national title win at Fargo, she has:
Continued to dominate at the high school level, racking up state and national titles.
Competed on the international stage, representing Team USA at multiple events.
Committed to a top collegiate wrestling program, where she is poised to make an immediate impact.
Her Fargo victory in 2023 was just the beginning, but it remains one of the key milestones in a career that is still on an upward trajectory.
Final Thought: A Future Legend in the Making
Morgan Turner’s 2023 Fargo National Championship win was a defining moment in her journey, showcasing her skill, resilience, and championship mentality. Now, as she continues to build her legacy, it’s clear that her best is still yet to come.
Two years later, one thing is certain—Morgan Turner isn’t just a name to watch in women’s wrestling. She’s a future legend in the making.
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