Some college wrestlers had their All-American moments on Saturday night, with Penn State wrestler Carter Starocci making history as the first five-time national champion in NCAA history. Starocci defeated Northern Iowa’s Parker Keckeisen to win the 184-pound championship and his fifth NCAA title. This achievement is significant as it is likely the first and possibly last time a college wrestler will achieve such a feat. Starocci had a fifth year of eligibility after taking part in the 2021 season, when all athletes were given another year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. His coach, Cael Sanderson, also had the honor of shaking hands with President Donald Trump at the event.
Other Penn State wrestlers spoke about Trump attending the wrestling championships, with many expressing that his presence brought honor and attention to the sport of wrestling. Josh Barr noted that Trump’s attendance helped bring life and energy to the sport, which is in need of growth. Mitchell Mesenbrink highlighted that regardless of politics, having the President of the United States at a wrestling event helps improve viewership and brings awareness to the sport. The wrestling championships were held at Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center for the first time since 2011, when Penn State emerged as the champions.
Trump’s presence at the event brought a national spotlight to college wrestling and an electric energy to the building. The President celebrated with a handful of other wrestlers after their championship victories as well, further showcasing his support for the sport. Trump received a raucous welcome from the crowd, with chants of “U-S-A! U-S-A!” echoing through the arena. While there were some fans who booed when Trump walked in, the overall atmosphere was one of excitement and enthusiasm. Several Trump allies and supporters, including OutKick founder Clay Travis, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, and Education Secretary Linda McMahon, were present in the front row to greet the President.
Trump’s attendance at the NCAA wrestling championships was not his first, as he also attended in 2023 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This event marked the second time in three years that Trump showed his support for the sport of wrestling at the national level. His presence at the championships helped draw attention to wrestling and bring awareness to the hard work and dedication of college wrestlers across the country. The sight of the President of the United States at a wrestling event added prestige and significance to the championships, highlighting the sport’s importance in the athletic world. The event garnered national media attention and showcased the talents of the college wrestlers who competed at the highest level.
