Carter Starocci’s victory in capturing the prestigious Hodge Trophy marks a monumental achievement in his already storied career at Penn State University. The Hodge Trophy, often regarded as the “Heisman Trophy of wrestling,” is awarded annually to the most dominant college wrestler in the United States, and it is no small feat to earn this accolade. For Starocci, his win solidifies his status as one of the greatest to ever compete in NCAA wrestling, further elevating the legacy of Penn State’s powerhouse wrestling program under the guidance of legendary coach Cael Sanderson.
Starocci’s journey to the Hodge Trophy began when he entered Penn State as a highly touted recruit, and over the course of his collegiate career, he has transformed into a wrestling juggernaut. Competing in the 174-pound weight class, Starocci has continually showcased his dominance on the mat with an exceptional combination of technical skill, relentless work ethic, and unmatched mental toughness. His style of wrestling is not only effective but also exciting to watch, as he overwhelms his opponents with his ability to score points in a variety of ways.
Throughout the season, Starocci displayed remarkable consistency, achieving an impressive record of victories against some of the best wrestlers in the nation. His combination of offense and defense made him a nearly unbeatable force. In particular, his performance at the NCAA Wrestling Championships in 2025, where he captured the national title in dominant fashion, was a testament to his well-rounded skill set and his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. Starocci’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary, as he showcased his unparalleled conditioning, grit, and ability to perform under the brightest lights of college wrestling.
The Hodge Trophy selection is not based solely on a wrestler’s win-loss record but also factors in dominance and technical superiority. Starocci stood out in every aspect of the sport, with his incredible ability to secure bonus points—whether through falls, technical falls, or major decisions—against nearly every opponent he faced. His relentless pace and never-give-up attitude ensured that he was constantly in control of the match, pushing the action and making it difficult for his opponents to mount any sort of offense.
In addition to his dominance on the mat, Starocci’s leadership and character off the mat have made him a role model for his peers. His work ethic, discipline, and commitment to excellence reflect the values that the Penn State wrestling program holds dear. Coach Cael Sanderson has spoken highly of Starocci’s dedication to the sport and his unwavering focus on self-improvement, which has undoubtedly played a role in his success. Starocci’s leadership has not only helped elevate his own career but has also contributed to the continued success of the entire Penn State wrestling team, which remains a perennial powerhouse in college wrestling.
Starocci’s Hodge Trophy win is a fitting conclusion to a remarkable college wrestling career. His achievements on the mat will be remembered for years to come, and his legacy will serve as an inspiration for future generations of wrestlers. The honor of being named the most dominant wrestler in the country is the pinnacle of collegiate wrestling, and Starocci has earned that distinction through sheer talent, determination, and hard work. As he prepares for the next chapter in his wrestling career, whether it be in the professional ranks or beyond, one thing is certain: Carter Starocci will forever be remembered as one of the greats in the sport’s history.