1/6/26
NAPERVILLE, Ill.: Fresh off a dominant 2025 campaign, the Carthage College Firebirds have once again been selected as the team to beat in the College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin (CCIW). According to the 2026 Men’s Volleyball Preseason Coaches’ Poll released Monday, Carthage earned five of the six available first-place votes to claim the top spot.
The Rankings: At a Glance
The coaches’ poll reflects high expectations for the Firebirds, while also highlighting a competitive middle of the pack between Loras and North Central.
| Rank | Team (First-Place Votes) | Total Points |
| 1. | Carthage (5) | 25 |
| 2. | Loras (1) | 20 |
| 3. | North Central | 17 |
| 4. | Augustana | 12 |
| 5. | Illinois Wesleyan | 11 |
| 6. | North Park | 5 |
Carthage Aims for Repeat Dominance
Under the guidance of four-time CCIW Coach of the Year JW Kieckhefer, Carthage enters the 2026 season looking to build on a stellar 23–4 record from last year. The Firebirds went 9–1 in league play in 2025 and are currently ranked No. 2 in the national AVCA Division III preseason rankings. With five first-place votes, the conference coaches clearly believe Carthage has the depth to defend its regular-season title.
Loras and North Central in Pursuit
The Loras Duhawks secured the remaining first-place vote, placing second with 20 points. Loras has established itself as a premier challenger, having ended last season with a strong showing in the conference tournament.
Meanwhile, North Central takes the third spot with 17 points. Although the Cardinals are graduating several key seniors, they remain a national fixture, starting the season ranked 18th in the country. Their consistency over the last four years makes them a dangerous opponent for anyone in the top tier.
The Mid-Table Battle
The race for the fourth and final tournament spot looks to be a tight one. Augustana (12 points) narrowly edged out Illinois Wesleyan (11 points) for the fourth slot in the poll. Illinois Wesleyan is entering its sixth season as a program and has shown steady improvement, while North Park rounds out the poll in sixth with 5 points, looking to play the role of spoiler in 2026.
What’s Next?
The 2026 CCIW season officially kicks off this month, with conference play beginning in earnest in mid-February. All eyes will be on the February 19 matchup when Carthage travels to face Illinois Wesleyan to begin their title defense.