KENOSHA – The Carthage College women's water polo team is set to make program history as they prepare for their first-ever trip to the national stage. The Firebirds will face Claremont-Mudd-Scripps in the semifinals on Saturday, April 25, at 2 p.m. PST.

Carthage enters Nationals following a historic 2026 season highlighted by several signature wins. At the CWPA Division III Championships, the Firebirds secured a statement upset over Augustana, 12–10. Carthage set the tone early and maintained control throughout, holding off multiple pushes from the Vikings before sealing the win with key insurance goals in the final quarter. Grace Steinberg led all scorers with five goals and one assist, helping punch the Firebirds' ticket to Nationals.

Earlier in the season, Carthage delivered another impressive performance at the CWPA West Tournament, in the Koenitzer Aquatic Center. The Firebirds defeated Austin 10–8 in a tightly contested matchup. After a back-and-forth first half, Carthage broke the game open with a decisive third quarter to take control. Brenna Carstens paced the offense with three goals in the victory.

The Firebirds' success this season has also been reflected in postseason recognition. Carstens and Kiera Crawley each earned all-conference honors, with Carstens serving as one of the team's primary offensive leaders throughout the year, while Crawley played a key role in multiple pivotal matchups.

At the CWPA Division III Championships, Carstens was named to the All-Tournament First Team, while Crawley and Steinberg earned Second Team honors. Head coach Seth Hughes was also recognized for his leadership, being named the CWPA Division III Championship Coach of the Tournament.

With momentum, accolades, and history on their side, the Firebirds now turn their focus to the national semifinals as they look to continue their remarkable season.