‘I Feel Terrible’: Starocci Apologises for Green Remark in Response to ‘Grub’ Sledge Slammed as Family Weighs In Before Historic NCAA Bid

 

In the high-stakes world of collegiate wrestling, emotions often run high—and for Penn State superstar Carter Starocci, this week has been nothing short of emotional chaos.

 

Just hours before he is set to compete for an unprecedented fifth NCAA Wrestling Championship, Starocci has found himself in the center of a media firestorm following comments he made in response to a sledging incident involving Oklahoma State wrestler Ryan Green. The clash between the two athletes has dominated headlines, with Starocci’s reaction sparking a heated national conversation—and prompting a public apology that’s now reverberating across the wrestling community.

 

The Incident

 

Tensions boiled over earlier this week during a media scrum when Starocci was asked about a reported exchange between him and Green during a semifinal warm-up session. Multiple onlookers said Green called Starocci a “grub”—a derogatory term implying dirty play and arrogance. The insult, which was reportedly yelled across the mat, didn’t sit well with the usually composed Penn State champion.

 

In a now-viral response, Starocci fired back, referencing Green’s previous losses and even mocking his wrestling style in what many considered a personal jab. “If being a ‘grub’ means being unbeatable, then I’ll wear that title proudly,” Starocci said. “Green’s been chasing shadows every time he faces someone with real technique. He can bark all he wants from the sidelines.”

 

While the remarks were initially cheered by some fans, the tone quickly shifted online as wrestling figures and fans across the country criticized Starocci’s comments as unsportsmanlike and uncharacteristic of a leader.

 

The Apology

 

Amid mounting backlash, Starocci took to social media late Tuesday night to issue a heartfelt apology.

 

> “I want to publicly apologise to Ryan Green and his family,” Starocci posted on Instagram. “I got caught up in the moment and let my emotions take over. That’s not who I am. I feel terrible about how I handled it.”

 

 

 

He continued, “Wrestling is built on respect. No matter the heat of the moment, we’re supposed to uplift the sport—not bring each other down. I have nothing but respect for Ryan’s grit and competitiveness.”

 

The post was accompanied by a photo of Starocci during his early Penn State days, symbolizing his growth and journey, along with the caption: “The mat humbles us all. Lessons learned.”

 

Family Reacts

 

While Starocci’s apology has been largely well-received, the incident has left those close to him shaken. Speaking to local media, Carter’s mother, Tina Starocci, said the week has been “mentally taxing” on the family.

 

> “Carter’s always been fiery, but he also has a huge heart,” she said. “He’s under enormous pressure heading into this fifth title run. We’ve reminded him that grace under pressure is just as important as winning.”

 

 

 

His father, Angelo, defended his son’s intent but acknowledged the need for greater composure. “He didn’t mean it maliciously—he just reacted like any competitor might. But we’ve taught him to lead with respect. He knows that now.”

 

Wrestling Community Responds

 

Former wrestlers and analysts across the country have weighed in on the drama. Olympic medalist and former NCAA champion Jordan Burroughs tweeted: “We all slip sometimes. Props to Carter for owning up. Growth isn’t always pretty, but it’s necessary.”

 

Others were less forgiving.

 

Dan Neves, a Big Ten analyst, called Starocci’s original remarks “a poor example for young athletes” and questioned whether the pressure of chasing history is beginning to affect his judgment.

 

> “This isn’t just about one bad moment,” Neves said. “Starocci has carried a chip on his shoulder for years—some love it, some don’t. But when you’re aiming for your fifth NCAA title, you’re under a microscope. Every word matters.”

 

 

 

The Bigger Picture

 

Carter Starocci’s journey to the top of collegiate wrestling has been marked by dominance and discipline. With four NCAA titles already under his belt and a perfect postseason record, he’s been the heart of Penn State’s wrestling dynasty.

 

Tonight, all eyes will be on him as he steps onto the mat at the NCAA Finals, hoping to join an elite, history-making class of five-time champions—a feat no wrestler in modern NCAA history has accomplished without redshirting or injury relief.

 

Penn State head coach Cael Sanderson addressed the situation briefly during pre-match interviews: “Carter is a competitor. He knows what’s at stake—on and off the mat. He’s apologized. Now it’s time to wrestle.”

 

Starocci, for his part, appears to be locked in, telling reporters after practice: “I let my mouth get ahead of my mindset. But I’m grounded now. The only statement I want to make next is on the mat.”

 

What’s Next?

 

The showdown between Starocci and his final opponent—top-seeded Iowa wrestler Jaxon Ramirez—is already being billed as one of the most anticipated matchups in recent memory. But the controversy has added a layer of intensity few expected.

 

Green, who fell short in the semis, has yet to comment publicly, but sources close to his team say he’s accepted Starocci’s apology and hopes the focus shifts back to the sport.

 

Whether Starocci leaves with his fifth title—or falls just short of history—he’s already etched himself into the fabric of collegiate wrestling. But this week’s controversy may ultimately prove to be a defining chapter in his legacy—not because of the mistake, but because of how he chose to own it.

 

As the lights dim and the mat awaits, Carter Starocci will have one more chance to show the world who he is—beyond the words, beyond the headlines, and beyond the controversy.