Penn State Wrestler Carter Starocci Wins 2025 Big Ten Male Athlete of Year

Carter Starocci, a Penn State wrestler, made history by becoming the first and only NCAA Division I wrestler to win five national championships, concluding his collegiate career with an undefeated 26-0 record in the 2024-2025 season. He received the prestigious 2025 Big Ten Jesse Owens Male Athlete of the Year award, joining fellow Penn State wrestlers David Taylor and Bo Nickal as recipients of this honor. Starocci also earned multiple accolades including the 2025 Big Ten Wrestler of the Year, three-time Big Ten Champion, and was a finalist for the Hodge Trophy, recognizing him as one of the top wrestlers in the country. Throughout his career, Starocci amassed a 104-4 record with a high number of bonus-point victories, showcasing his dominance on the mat. His achievements contributed to Penn State securing its 12th NCAA team title under head coach Cael Sanderson, marking the Nittany Lions’ fourth consecutive national championship. Starocci emphasized that his success was driven by the process and dedication rather than the trophies themselves.