BREAKING: Rocco Welsh Captures U23 National Title, Becomes 7th Penn State Wrestler to Qualify for Team USA
In a significant achievement for Penn State Wrestling, Rocco Welsh clinched the 86 kg freestyle title at the 2025 U23 Nationals in Geneva, Ohio. This victory not only marks a personal milestone for Welsh but also secures his spot on Team USA for the upcoming U23 World Championships in Serbia this October.
Welsh, who transferred from Ohio State to Penn State after the 2024 season, delivered an impressive performance throughout the tournament. He went undefeated with a 7-0 record, culminating in a best-of-three finals series where he defeated Maryland’s NCAA medalist Jaxon Smith with scores of 4-2 and 6-3.
This accomplishment makes Welsh the seventh member of the Penn State wrestling program to earn a spot on the U23 National Team, highlighting the program’s depth and commitment to excellence.
With his recent transfer and this national title, Welsh is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season, potentially filling the void left by the departure of five-time NCAA champion Carter Starocci.
For a more in-depth look at Welsh’s journey and his reflections on joining Penn State, you can watch his interview below:
