Trailing 4-1 with just 90 seconds left on the clock, Penn State's Rocco Welsh found himself in a tight spot against his former team, Ohio State. But the redshirt sophomore wasn’t about to let the match slip away. With a stunning seven-point rally, Welsh turned the tables and claimed victory, much to the delight of the roaring crowd.
Welsh, who once donned the Buckeye colors, faced off against Dylan Fishback, an N.C. State transfer.
After conceding a takedown and scrambling out of some tricky situations, Welsh kept his composure. “It was kind of a worst-case scenario,” Welsh admitted before practice.
“But I stayed positive, knowing I could still win.”
His mindset paid off. Welsh felt he had more to give, especially in those final moments.
“I got one takedown quickly and thought, ‘go get another one.’ As Fishback tired, it became easier to score,” Welsh explained.
Welsh has seamlessly integrated into Penn State’s powerhouse lineup at 184 pounds, boasting a perfect 16-0 record and topping the weight-class rankings. “From day one, they accepted me,” Welsh said about his transition. “I’m just starting to feel more comfortable now.”
His two crucial takedowns, one with 1:11 left and another with just 14 seconds remaining, sent the record-setting crowd of 16,006 at the Jordan Center into a frenzy. “That atmosphere was incredible,” Welsh remarked.
Coach Cael Sanderson praised Welsh’s heart and determination, emphasizing the importance of resilience. “Seeing that it’s OK to fall behind is something we value even more than the win,” Sanderson noted.
Welsh enjoys working with Penn State’s coaching staff, particularly Coach Casey Cunningham. “He doesn’t try to change me too much.
He just adds what I need,” Welsh said. “It’s been perfect for my progression.”
Training alongside top-ranked teammates like 197-pounder Josh Barr and Levi Haines at 174 pounds has also been invaluable. “Going with Barr before every match is great; he brings a high pace,” Welsh shared.
“And Levi is tough to get out on. Everyone in this room is good, and it all helps.”
As Penn State (14-0/8-0) wraps up its dual-meet season against Princeton, Welsh and the team have their sights set on the upcoming Big Ten Championships and NCAA Championships. The Lions are defending champions in both arenas.
Reflecting on his journey, Welsh recalls competing in the 2024 NCAA finals against Penn State’s Carter Starocci. Despite a narrow loss, the experience was crucial.
“Being in that situation gives you confidence,” Welsh said. His growth since then has been a testament to his determination and the supportive environment at Penn State.