Breaking News: Penn State Wrestling Star Rocco Welsh Captures U23 National Title
In a dazzling display of power, poise, and precision, Penn State’s redshirt freshman Rocco Welsh cemented his rising star status by claiming the U23 National Championship in style this weekend in Geneva, Ohio. Competing in the 79kg freestyle bracket, Welsh stormed through the field, demonstrating the relentless pace and technical mastery that have come to define the Nittany Lions under head coach Cael Sanderson.
Welsh, who hails from Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, entered the tournament as a dark horse with something to prove. While his collegiate résumé is still young, his high school dominance and steady development at Penn State’s elite wrestling room hinted at the potential now fully realized. Over the course of the two-day tournament, Welsh defeated five nationally ranked opponents, culminating in a thrilling 10-4 victory over Northern Iowa’s Cade DeVos in the finals.
His path to gold was not without adversity. In the semifinals, Welsh found himself trailing early against Oklahoma State’s Teague Travis. But Welsh, known for his gritty resilience, adjusted his offense, unleashed a barrage of ankle picks and short drags, and turned the tide to win 8-5. “I train with the best in the world every day,” Welsh said after the match. “I’ve been preparing for moments like this my whole life.”
In the championship match, Welsh wasted no time asserting control. He opened with a quick level change into a lightning-fast double leg, scoring the first takedown within 20 seconds. DeVos, a seasoned competitor with a powerful upper body game, attempted to slow the match down, but Welsh’s conditioning and mat awareness neutralized every threat. He spun out of danger repeatedly, countered with crisp re-attacks, and built a lead he never relinquished.
The win not only earned Welsh the U23 National title but also secured him a spot on the U.S. team heading to the U23 World Championships in Tirana, Albania, this October. It’s an opportunity that could define the next phase of his career—and perhaps mark the beginning of a new dynasty at 79kg on the international scene.
Penn State fans are already buzzing about what this could mean for the program. With All-Americans like Carter Starocci and Aaron Brooks setting the gold standard, Welsh is poised to be the next Nittany Lion to break through on both national and world stages. Coach Sanderson called the victory “a testament to Rocco’s work ethic and belief in the process.”
For now, Welsh remains focused and humble. “This is just one step,” he said, trophy in hand, sweat still glistening under the arena lights. “There’s more work to do. I want to be the best in the world.”
If this weekend was any indication, he might be well on his way.
For continued coverage of Penn State Wrestling and Team USA’s journey to the U23 World Championships, stay tuned.
