Carter Starocci
In a moment that will go down in collegiate wrestling history, Penn State’s Carter Starocci cemented his legacy by becoming the first-ever five-time NCAA wrestling champion. The historic feat was achieved at the 2025 NCAA Wrestling Championships, where Starocci claimed the 184-pound title, adding to his previous four crowns at 174 pounds.
Starocci’s unprecedented accomplishment was made possible by an extra year of eligibility granted by the NCAA due to the COVID-19 pandemic — a rule change that allowed a rare fifth postseason appearance. But eligibility alone didn’t make it easy. The road was filled with adversity, including a mid-season injury that left questions about his status entering the national tournament.
However, the seasoned veteran showed his championship mettle once again. Starocci dominated his weight class, combining explosive takedowns, strategic mat control, and elite endurance to sweep through the bracket and win his fifth national title.
“It means everything,” Starocci said in a post-match interview. “It’s not just about me. It’s about Penn State, my teammates, my coaches, and my family. This is for all of them.”
The historic win also adds another jewel to the crown of head coach Cael Sanderson, himself a four-time NCAA champion, who called Starocci “one of the toughest and most focused competitors I’ve ever coached.”
Beyond the mat, Starocci’s story has resonated with wrestling fans nationwide. He’s been vocal about the need for wrestling to get greater media recognition, even criticizing major networks like ESPN for their lack of coverage.
With his NCAA career now complete, Starocci’s next move is closely watched. Whether he chooses to pursue freestyle Olympic wrestling or transition to mixed martial arts, one thing is certain: he’s already a legend.
