The ruckman, affectionately known as ‘The Big Ragou’, set the tone through the middle, throwing his weight around and giving Katty a physical edge they’ve lacked in recent years.
His presence helped turn a seven-point half-time deficit into a famous 14.6 (90) to 10.9 (69) triumph, ending Waaia’s unbeaten season and run of three straight senior premierships while claiming the 2025 Brian Henderson Medal.
Del Grosso was quick to deflect praise.
“It’s not about the best on,” he said.
“It’s an unreal experience, but just glad to get over the line. Waaia were undefeated, three-peat they were on, going for four, so full credit to them.
“But yeah, just rapt we got over the line. Good team effort, to be honest.”
Even as cramps set in during the final term, Del Grosso continued to impact contests.
His tap work and follow-up efforts gave Katamatite’s forwards the supply they needed as Mitch Coleman and Mark Mills put the Bombers’ defence under siege.
Asked about toppling a side many thought unbeatable, you couldn’t have wiped the smile from his face.
“It was just good to win. It could have been any side,” he said.
“They won three in a row for a reason, a champion team. It was a good battle. Unreal.”
But true to form, he was quick to acknowledge his teammates.
“Definitely ‘Whiz’, ‘Patches’, Dyl Callard, Toby Kopa, Mitch Coleman, everyone just played an unreal game. I’m surprised I did win it. I’m just glad we won.”
On a day Katamatite fans will never forget, Del Grosso’s performance was the heartbeat of the Tigers’ famous flag.
