Penn State Wrestling Makes History with 10 All-Americans in a Single Season
In a groundbreaking achievement, the Penn State Nittany Lions wrestling team has become only the second program in NCAA Division I history to produce 10 All-Americans in a single season. This milestone, accomplished during the 2025 NCAA Wrestling Championships in Philadelphia, underscores the team’s unparalleled dominance in collegiate wrestling.
Under the leadership of head coach Cael Sanderson, Penn State secured its fourth consecutive national title, marking the 13th in program history. The Nittany Lions amassed a record-breaking 177 points, surpassing their previous high of 172.5 set in 2024.
The team’s historic performance featured standout wrestlers such as Carter Starocci, who made history by becoming the first-ever five-time NCAA champion. Starocci’s victory at 184 pounds added to his previous four titles at 174 pounds, a feat made possible by an eligibility waiver granted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joining Starocci in the championship circle was Mitchell Mesenbrink, who clinched the 165-pound title, contributing to the team’s impressive tally of 10 All-Americans. Other notable performances included Josh Barr’s runner-up finish at 197 pounds and third-place finishes by Luke Lilledahl (125), Beau Bartlett (141), Shayne Van Ness (149), Tyler Kasak (157), and Levi Haines (174). (
This remarkable achievement not only highlights the individual talents of the wrestlers but also reflects the depth and strength of the Penn State wrestling program. The Nittany Lions’ historic 2025 season sets a new standard in collegiate wrestling, solidifying their legacy as one of the most dominant teams in NCAA history.
