Carter Starocci Returning to Penn State for Final Wrestling Season, Starocci aims to become a four-time NCAA champion before pursuing an Olympic gold medal.
Carter Starocci will return to Penn State for the 2023-24 wrestling season, with the opportunity to become the Nittany Lions’ first four-time NCAA champion. Starocci stated his intention to return for his “fourth and final year” on Penn State’s athletic website. He also hinted at a possible Olympic run in the 2024 Summer Games in Paris.
“This is a historic moment for myself, Penn State, and my family,” Starocci stated in the video. “I have my entire family watching and supporting me, which means a lot. So I’ll be sure to take care of business and complete the year with that fourth natty daddy and Olympic title.”
In March, Starocci won his third NCAA title at 174 pounds, finishing his second consecutive unbeaten season and winning his 52nd straight bout, the nation’s longest active streak. He is Penn State’s sixth three-time champion and has the possibility to become the program’s first four-time champion, alongside Aaron Brooks, who just won the United World Wrestling U23 world title at 86 kg.
Starocci had several options for leaving Penn State following this season to pursue international wrestling or an MMA career. Starocci advanced to the 79 kg semifinals of Final X in April, but was defeated by Alex Dieringer. He still has a chance to wrestle at the United States Olympic Trials in August at the Bryce Jordan Center.
At the NCAA Championships, Starocci discussed the choices he was exploring, including returning to Penn State.
“And just what Penn State’s doing over there is a lot deeper than wrestling,” Carter went on to say. “I know we talk about having fun all the time, and it may appear that they are having fun or whatever, but I love those guys with all my heart, and they have helped shape me into the man I am. And I’m simply thrilled to be part of that community.”
Starocci is one of two 2023 NCAA champions and five finalists returning for the Nittany Lions, who are aiming for their 11th NCAA title in 13 seasons. Penn State begins the 2023-24 wrestling season in the Journeymen Classic in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
