“She’s humble, mature and dedicated. I don’t see much of anything that phases her when she plays. That includes any special schemes or tricks that teams or coaches might attempt when batting against her or pitching to her. She is not phased by any of it. Moreso, she is prepared for it.”

Jason McLeod

Head Coach head coach at Portland High School

Athletic Excellence

At the time of her selection, the 5-foot-9 freshman right-handed pitcher and infielder had led the Stags to a 15-1 record and a berth in the Division I state tournament. DeRoche compiled an 8-1 record in the circle with a 0.12 ERA and three no-hitters through 16 games, surrendering just six hits in 57 innings while striking out 137 batters against just six walks. DeRoche also batted .553 with three home runs and 24 RBI, recording a 1.745 OPS. She ranks as the nation’s No. 7 prospect in the Class of 2027 according to Extra Innings Softball and was named one of the top 20 freshmen to watch across the country by Sports Illustrated/SB Live.

Academic Achievement

DeRoche has maintained a 4.0 GPA in the classroom. She will begin her sophomore year of high school this fall.

Exemplary Character

DeRoche has volunteered locally as a food drive volunteer to benefit the needy and with a softball camp associated with the National Alliance on Mental Illness.