Penn State wrestling got even better— if you can believe that— late last month by adding a former national runner-up in Rocco Welsh.
Welsh, who entered the portal after two years at Ohio State, decided to stay in the Big Ten and return to the state he grew up in.
Yep, the Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, native is coming to Penn State and in doing so, becomes the clear favorite to succeed five-time national champ Carter Starocci at 184 pounds.
Being the next Carter Starocci is a lot to ask for anybody but Welsh is focused on becoming the first Rocco Welsh. He’s already well on his way, with a national championship match appearance under his belt. With three years of eligibility left, Welsh has plenty of time to add on to his college wrestling legacy.
One thing that already seems certain is that Welsh will be part of teams that win titles.
Penn State has won 12 of those in the past 14 years, reaching and, arguably, surpassing dynasty status.
Stine: The Word ‘Dynasty’ Doesn’t do Penn State Wrestling Justice
Oklahoma State and its head coach, Penn State legend David Taylor, also wanted Welsh, and Welsh was tempted.
“Yes,” Welsh told Nittany Sports Now, “Oklahoma State was recruiting me while I was in the transfer portal. It’s a very good option, and they have everything I need to accomplish my goals as well.”
So why did Welsh pick Penn State?
“I just think PSU is better for me because of how close it is, I get homesick sometimes,” he said. “It was very hard to turn down Oklahoma State because they have a good thing going.
“Penn State has the best partners and coaches. I believe I can be my best here.”
One of those partners will be the man who beat Welsh in that national title match, Starocci.
Although Starocci won’t be wrestling for Penn State anymore, he’ll still be with the program through the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.So what does Welsh remember about wrestling Starocci, which he’s done twice?
“I remember he felt strong and fast,” Welsh said. “He was very technical and good in every position. I’m excited to learn from him and implement some of that into my wrestling
Three guys who also played a role in Welsh’s decision were PJ Duke, Jayden James and Khaled Dassan. Duke (2025) and James (2026) are two of the best pound-for-pound wrestlers in their respective classes and are coming to Penn State.
Dassan, who runs the KD Training Center, trains both of them and has been training Welsh since before his sophomore year at Waynesburg Central High School.
“I trusted KD through the decision making process,” Welsh said. “He has never steered me wrong. I’m also excited to be teammates with PJ Duke and Jayden James.
For Dassan, Welsh’s drive is his biggest strength as a wrestler.
“Relentless work ethic,” Welsh said. “He is willing to work for what he wants to achieve.”
As a person, Dassan expects Welsh to bring positive vibes to Penn State’s culture.
”Rocco always brings good energy to the room,” he said. “People naturally gravitate toward him.”
So what does Dassan think Welsh’s potential is?
“Without a doubt,” he said. “I believe he can be a multiple time NCAA champ and world/olympic. PSU fans will be happy with this one!
Welsh had a five-word message for Penn State fans.
“I won’t let you down.”
