Bowen DeRosso is ITG Next’s 2026 Colquitt County High School Male Athlete of the Year, presented by Vereen Sports Medicine.
DeRosso just completed his junior season with the Packers as a standout two-way performer for Colquitt County’s baseball program.
DeRosso was a big part of Colquitt County’s 19-win season, including a 10-5 finish in Region 1-6A, good enough for the No. 2 seed in the playoffs.
As a pitcher, he finished the 2026 season with an overall 6-2 record on the mound, including a 4-1 mark against Region 1-6A opponents. He recorded 68 strikeouts in 59 innings against some of the best competition in Georgia high school baseball.
At the plate, DeRosso was equally reliable and impressive, serving as the Packers’ table-setting leadoff batter, hitting .330 with four home runs and 26 RBIs. He had six doubles and scored 21 runs in 2026.
DeRosso’s performance earned him Region 1-6A Pitcher of the Year honors.
According to Colquitt County head baseball coach Ryan Strickland, DeRosso’s success was fully expected based on his performance last season.
“Bowen DeRosso has developed into one of the most complete and impactful players in South Georgia, playing a central role in Colquitt County’s success on the diamond,” Strickland said. “He gained statewide recognition as a sophomore, earning First-Team All-Region honors in Region 1-6A and a selection to Team Georgia, where he competed in the High School Baseball National Championship Series in Omaha, Nebraska.”
DeRosso entered the 2026 season as a preseason All-State selection based on his success in 2025, and he did not disappoint.
“His ability to consistently impact the game in every phase – pitching, hitting, and leadership – sets him apart,” Strickland said.
DeRosso will return for his senior season in 2027.
