“Unprecedented Territory: Carter Starocci Becomes First 5x NCAA Division I Wrestling Champion”
History has been made on the NCAA wrestling stage as Penn State’s Carter Starocci etched his name into the record books as the first-ever five-time Division I national champion. The wrestling world watched in awe as Starocci capped off his illustrious collegiate career at the 2025 NCAA Championships, securing his fifth consecutive individual title.
Starocci’s journey to this unprecedented achievement began in 2021, where as a freshman, he claimed his first national championship at 174 pounds. He followed this with dominant performances in 2022, 2023, and 2024, each time standing atop the podium. The opportunity for a fifth title arose due to an extra year of eligibility granted to athletes who competed during the COVID-affected 2020-21 season, and Starocci seized this chance to solidify his legendary status.
Throughout his remarkable career, Starocci showcased a rare blend of athleticism, technical prowess, and mental fortitude. His dominance in the 174-pound weight class was absolute, marked by consistent victories over top competitors. Even a late-season injury in 2024 couldn’t derail his championship aspirations, as he battled through the pain to secure his fourth title.
In his final NCAA tournament in 2025, wrestling at 184 pounds, Starocci once again proved his mettle. He navigated a challenging bracket, culminating in a hard-fought victory in the finals to claim his historic fifth crown. This achievement places him in a class of his own in NCAA wrestling history, a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and exceptional talent.
Beyond his individual accolades, Starocci’s success has been instrumental in Penn State’s continued dominance in collegiate wrestling. His leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence have inspired his teammates and contributed to the program’s consistent national championship contention. Carter Starocci’s five NCAA titles are not just a personal triumph but a landmark moment in the sport’s history, setting a new standard of achievement that may stand for generations to come.
