New heights and standout developments highlighted the 2026 campaign for the South. Northern Kentucky continued their steady rise since their league debut in 2023, North Georgia resurged with an exciting, young team, Georgia Southern showed up despite roster issues, and Alabama displayed a respectable first-year performance. Prospective teams in the region make the South something to watch closely in the 2026-2027 season.
Northern Kentucky
Final rank: #16 (8-12)
Northern Kentucky only entered the league in 2023, but if you watch their matches from this season, they look like they’ve been playing together much longer. The system of Head Coach Wes Peters has allowed NKU to quickly develop strong bonds and develop chemistry. In the fall semester, Braylon Patton and Will Strong led the Norse to an overtime win against Akron. In the spring, the duo continued to win as NKU went undefeated in pursuit of their second straight South Dodgeball Cup title in an overtime thriller. At nationals, without Will Strong, Patton led his team to their 8th win to end the season.
North Georgia
Final rank: #15 (7-8)
North Georgia had an interesting season with a combination of seasoned veterans and young talent. However, the Nighthawks failed to achieve a winning record, coming just one win short of .500. During the South Dodgeball Cup, Matthew Beaty and Ezekiel Fowler pushed the defending Cup winners to overtime in one of the most exciting OT periods of the season. Going into 2027, the ceiling has never been higher for North Georgia.
Alabama
Final rank: #20 (3-8)
Alabama had their foot on the gas all throughout their debut year. In the fall, the Crimson Tide pushed a competitive match against Northern Kentucky and fielded a team of 19 at their home tournament. In the spring, Avery Thomas, Avery Weathers, Nick Rossini, and Dominic Lang emerged as the core of the young team, who were comprised solely of freshmen and sophomores. Despite being in one of the smaller regions in the league, Alabama scored points against #2 Ohio State, the 2025 champions Miami, and #11 Akron. Going into 2027, a young Crimson Tide team will have a fruitful year of playing experience under their belt.
Georgia Southern
Final rank: #26 (0-10)
Despite their record, Georgia Southern routines played competitive games against the other teams in the South. The Eagles’ problems stemmed from a roster issue, only fielding more than 8 players one time throughout the year. Mason Wade and Tyrek Evans have years of NCDA experience and could certainly lead a young squad to a winning season in 2027.