Berni, a Carthage College alumna and former standout student-athlete, returns to the program after an impressive playing career from 2019-23. Berni is the sixth coach in program history to helm the women's lacrosse team. 

During her time with the women's lacrosse team, Berni ranks eighth in career points with 194 (144 goals and 50 assists). Berni also sits eighth in goals scored, eighth in assists, and 11th in points per game (2.81). Her contributions extended beyond scoring, as she ranked sixth in ground balls (153), third in woman-up goals (11), and recorded the fifth most draw controls in a single game (11). She earned CCIW Second Team honors in 2022.

"We are thrilled to welcome Maddie back to Carthage as our new head coach for women's lacrosse," stated Athletic Director Ryan Kane. "She embodies the passion and tradition of our program, and we couldn't be more excited for her to lead the next generation of Firebirds. Her deep connection to this school, both on and off the field, makes her the perfect choice to build on our success and inspire our team to reach new heights."

Berni's return to Carthage signals a new era for the Firebirds lacrosse program. Berni takes charge of a team that finished the previous season with an 11-7 overall record, including a 4-2 mark in conference play and a strong 5-2 finish down the regular season stretch. The Firebirds reached the finals of the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) Tournament. The team boasted six all-conference selections, including August Claridge, named First-Year Student-Athlete of the Year, and earned a spot on the Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) Great Lakes Region Second Team.

"I am so excited and honored to be back here at Carthage," said Berni. "I've called this school and team home for the past six years, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for this team and program!"