Penn State Pride Shines Bright: Two Wrestlers and a Club Standout Power Through to Advance in U.S. World Team Trials Journey
Penn State continues to assert its dominance in the world of wrestling—not just in collegiate arenas but on the international stage as well. Over the weekend, Nittany Lion pride was on full display as two Penn State wrestlers and a standout from the affiliated Nittany Lion Wrestling Club (NLWC) made waves by advancing in the 2025 U.S. World Team Trials, inching closer to the opportunity to represent Team USA at the World Championships.
Among the headliners was Levi Haines, a rising star who continues to impress with his unmatched stamina and aggressive style. Haines, competing at 70 kg, battled through a deep bracket of seasoned athletes, showing why he’s considered one of the most promising talents in the U.S. freestyle wrestling scene. With tactical brilliance and relentless energy, Haines earned his spot in the Final X event—a critical step in the World Team selection process.
Joining Haines in the spotlight was Carter Starocci, the four-time NCAA champion whose transition to freestyle has been nothing short of dominant. Wrestling at 79 kg, Starocci showcased his trademark grit, counterattacking savvy, and elite mat awareness. After a strong showing throughout the tournament, Starocci secured his own ticket to Final X, bringing him one step closer to wearing the red, white, and blue on the world stage.
Rounding out Penn State’s powerful performance was Zain Retherford, representing the NLWC. A seasoned international competitor and former NCAA legend, Retherford reminded everyone why he’s still a force to be reckoned with. Competing at 65 kg, he bulldozed through the trials bracket with technical precision and overwhelming physicality, punching his ticket to Final X once again.
With these three standout performances, Penn State and its wrestling program continue to serve as a pipeline for Olympic and world-level talent. Their success not only highlights the elite coaching of Cael Sanderson and the NLWC staff but also affirms Penn State’s status as the epicenter of American wrestling excellence.
The journey isn’t over yet—Final X looms on the horizon, where these warriors will fight for the right to represent the U.S. at the World Championships. One thing’s for sure: the Nittany Lion roar is echoing loud and clear on the international stage.
