BRIDGEPORT — The Carthage College women's water polo team delivered a strong showing at the 2026 Collegiate Water Polo Association Division III Championship, securing two victories over the weekend, including a notable upset of Augustana, to qualify for the USA Water Polo Division III National Championships on April 25–26.

The Firebirds' performance also propelled them into the national rankings, landing at No. 7 in the Week 13 Division III Top 10 poll with 66 points after receiving votes the previous week.

Carthage's success in Massachusetts was highlighted by multiple postseason honors. Brenna Carstens earned All-Tournament First Team recognition, while Kiera Crawley and Grace Steinberg were named to the Second Team. Head coach Seth Hughes was selected as the CWPA Division III Championship Coach of the Tournament.

The Firebirds return to action at the USAWP Division III National Championships April 25.