ORLANDO – Senior outfielder DeAmez Ross has been named to the 2026 Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team. Ross is one of nine players selected to receive this honor.
Since 1955, Phi Delta Theta has presented the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award to a Major League Baseball player who best exemplifies the spirit and character of Lou Gehrig on and off the field. To further Gehrig’s legacy, the fraternity paired with the Live Like Lou Foundation to recognize collegiate baseball players through the selection of the Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team.
Honorees were nominated by their schools, and the team was selected based on outstanding achievements in three key areas:
• Demonstrating a substantial commitment to their community through service and philanthropy
• Embodying the generous spirit and character of Lou Gehrig
• Making remarkable contributions to the success of their respective teams
Ross has been a standout athlete throughout his collegiate career. The center fielder has led the Black and Gold at the highest standard both on and off the field. Since arriving at UCF in 2024, he has made his mark and left an incredible impact on the campus and in his local community.
Ross started all 55 games for the Knights in 2025. His standout performance earned him Honorable Mention honors in the Big 12 Conference. Ross led the conference with 84 hits while batting .359 and scoring 53 runs on the season. He also totaled 15 doubles, two triples, two home runs, and 14 stolen bases. Ross was a key contributor to the Knights’ productive offense. His performance on the field, dedication, and steady presence as the Black and Gold’s leadoff batter made him a vital part of the program. Additionally, Ross was one of just two student-athletes nationwide selected to serve on the NCAA Baseball Committee.
Off the field, Ross upholds a deep commitment to community service. UCF Baseball partners with Team Impact, mentoring Gavin, a local child facing chronic health challenges. Ross plays a central leadership role in this partnership—organizing team activities, attending games, providing guidance on baseball skills, and offering friendship to Gavin, leaving a lasting impact on his life. Ross also volunteers with the Miracle League, promoting inclusive baseball experiences for individuals with disabilities and bringing positivity and encouragement to every participant.
Ross also continues to leave an impact in his hometown of Melbourne, Florida. He founded and runs a youth baseball camp during the holiday season. He teaches kids the fundamentals of baseball while instilling confidence, discipline, and sportsmanship into every athlete. Through his extensive efforts, Ross uses baseball as his platform to inspire and motivate young athletes.
Ross is one of four team captains for UCF in 2026.
“We are proud to nominate DeAmez Ross for recognition of his exemplary community service contributions. He is truly deserving of this honor and exemplifies ‘living like Lou,” said Rich Wallace, UCF head baseball coach.
Other members of the 2026 Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team include: Zion Rose - University of Louisville, Landon Ruesink - Dakota Wesleyan University, Trent Bielak - University of Pittsburgh-Bradford, Nathan Chrismon - Catawba College, Norman Jackson - Virginia State University, Breon Parker - UMass Boston, Matthew Russo - University of Southern Mississippi, and Chris Stanfield - Louisiana State University.