Penn State Wrestling’s Carter Starocci Wins Hodge Trophy
Penn State wrestler Carter Starocci has been awarded the Hodge Trophy, considered the Heisman Trophy of college wrestling. Starocci, a four-time NCAA champion, had a dominant season, going undefeated and winning his fourth consecutive national title.
The Hodge Trophy is presented annually to the most outstanding college wrestler, as voted on by a panel of wrestling media and former winners of the award. Starocci is the third Penn State wrestler to win the Hodge Trophy, joining former Nittany Lions greats David Taylor and Zain Retherford.
“I’m honored to receive the Hodge Trophy,” Starocci said. “It’s an incredible feeling to be recognized as the best wrestler in the country.”
Starocci’s impressive season was marked by his dominance on the mat. He outscored his opponents by a combined score of 143-18, and his four NCAA titles make him one of the most decorated wrestlers in Penn State history.
“Carter is an incredible wrestler and an even better person,” said Penn State head coach Cael Sanderson. “He’s worked tirelessly to achieve his goals, and it’s great to see him receive this well-deserved recognition.”
