University of Mary Athletics

A legend on the mat for the University of Mary, Aaron Hartnell achieved success like few others. One of only 10 national champions in Marauders history, Hartnell is also just one of only six to claim All-American honors four times.
 
A two-time state champion from Great Falls, MT, Hartnell was convinced by UMary Hall of Fame wrestling coach Milo Trusty to join the Marauders, telling Hartnell he believed in him and offering him a scholarship. Hartnell joined the Marauders in the fall of 2000 and had an immediate impact on one of the top programs in the nation. In his first NAIA championship as a freshman in 2001, Hartnell finished eighth in the nation as the Marauders placed third as a team. As a sophomore, Hartnell took a significant jump forward as he claimed fourth in the country while the Marauders placed seventh in the team standings. Hartnell reached his personal zenith as a junior in 2003. The NAIA Regional Championship Most Valuable Wrestler, Hartnell proceeded to win the NAIA national championship at 125 pounds. His efforts pushed the Marauders to another top team finish as UMary placed eighth overall. As a senior in 2004, Hartnell finished a match shy of competing for a second straight national title as he wrapped up a storied career with a third-place finish at the 2004 NAIA finals. He was the Marauders team captain as a junior and senior.
 
A dean’s list student, Aaron graduated from the University of Mary in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in social and behavioral science in social studies education. Living in Great Falls, MT, where he is the branch manager for Pacific Steel and Recycling, Aaron and his wife, Jen, are the parents of Blaine, Kaydence, Gage and AJ.