KENOSHA, Wis. — With all three Carthage Rocket League teams qualifying for the NECC National Tournament, the Firebirds made a deep run in the playoffs, reaching as far as the final four.

"Everyone had a great season in year one, and showed up when the moments were tough," said director of esports Kevin Palmer. "In year one, we had three teams make regular season playoffs, one playoff championship, an undefeated season, three teams make the national tournament, two elite eight appearances, and one final four team."

The A-team played twice on Sunday, May 15 in the opening-round group stage, as they took down the University of British Columbia 3-0 before defeating Fanshawe College 3-1. After falling 3-1 to Dalhousie University, the Rocket League B-team defeated Marywood University 3-0 and Buena Vista University 3-2 to advance. The C-team picked up a pair of victories on the initial day as well, as they defeated Cumberland University 3-0 and Concordia Wisconsin 3-2.

In day two of the NECC National Tournament, the C-team fell 4-1 to Fresno State University, with the Carthage A and B teams matching up, as the A team was triumphant 4-1. The Firebirds then took on Lincoln CC in the final four, but fell 4-0.
 
"The best thing about this year is none of these students were recruited, and none of them are seniors," said Palmer. "So we will be back better than ever for year two of Carthage Esports."
 
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