This year, 14 teams took over the fields at Al Rollins Park for an evening of friendly competition, community spirit, and plenty of fun—all while supporting the work of United Way of Northwest Georgia.

The 2026 tournament brought teams from Mohawk Industries, Shaw Industries, Dalton Utilities, BDL Advisors, Engineered Floors, Marketing Alliance Group, Carpets & Furniture of Dalton, Dalton RV, Emerald Carpets, and Americhem. With four teams from Mohawk and two from Shaw, there was no shortage of competition on the fields!

From the first pitch to the final out, every team brought the energy. After a full evening of games, Carpets & Furniture of Dalton took home the championship title, defeating three-year reigning champions Shaw Industries in an exciting final matchup. Congratulations to both teams on an incredible championship game and to Carpets & Furniture of Dalton on taking home the 2026 trophy! 

While there can only be one tournament champion, YLS Kickball has always been about more than winning. Young Leaders Society brings together emerging leaders who want to connect with one another while making a difference in Northwest Georgia. Events like this give our community an opportunity to build relationships, have fun, and support United Way’s work to create opportunities for everyone to thrive.

Of course, an event like this would not be possible without the businesses and organizations that invest in it. 

A huge thank you to our 2026 sponsors: 

MVP: Shaw Industries

ALL-STAR: Dalton RV, Dalton Utilities, Engineered Floors, and Marketing Alliance Group

BIG KICK: Carpets/Furniture of Dalton, and Dalton Parks and Recreation

KICKSTARTER: BDL Advisors 

Your support helped make our fifth annual tournament another great night for YLS and our community.

We’re also grateful to GA Tacos, Una Mas, and Bruster’s for joining us and keeping our players and spectators fueled, refreshed, and cooled off throughout the evening!

We are especially grateful to Dalton Parks and Recreation for providing the fields and referees and helping us bring the tournament to life. And to every player, volunteer, supporter, and spectator who joined us—thank you for making year five one to remember!

14 teams. One championship. Five years of kicking for a cause.

Congratulations again to Carpets & Furniture of Dalton, our 2026 YLS Kickball Tournament Champions!

We’re already looking forward to year six.

Young Leaders Society is about bringing together emerging leaders who want to make a difference in Northwest Georgia. Through giving, volunteering, networking, and community involvement, YLS members are building connections while creating meaningful change right here at home.

Interested in learning more about Young Leaders Society and how you can get involved? Visit our YLS webpage or follow @unitedwaynwga on social media to stay connected!

United is the Way!