Penn State three-time NCAA champion Carter Starocci went 0-2 at the 2024 Big Ten Championships after a reported leg injury forced him to injury default from both of his matches. Starocci had apparently hoped to compete at this weekend's event.

Nittany Lion head coach Cael Sanderson spoke with Nate Cobler of the Centre Daily Times.

“He wanted to wrestle the whole tournament and was planning on wrestling the tournament. It is really tough for him. He’s having a hard time about this. He’d wrestle if both of his legs were hurt,” Sanderson said. “He’s just so competitive. He’s pretty upset, but there’s just no reason, when he meets the criteria to get an at-large (bid), to put himself in a position to set himself back. 

“He’s not happy, with me, but that’s why he’s Carter Starocci.”

Read Cobler's full Centre Daily Times Article here.

Starocci, along with 197 lbs teammate Aaron Brooks, has the opportunity to become a four-time NCAA champion in two weeks, something only five previous wrestlers haver accomplished. Starocci is also the only wrestler with the opportunity to compete next season for a fifth NCAA title, assuming he wins his fourth in Kansas City.

Based on Sanderson's comments, Starocci is eligible to receive an at large bid for NCAAs where he could still compete for his fourth straight championship finish.