ROME - Zeynep Ege of Texas Wesleyan University earned an at-large bid to the ITA Cup Fall National Tournament in the NAIA Women's Singles Division after a standout semifinal run at her regional, including a victory over a nationally ranked opponent.

The ITA Cup features 16 players: eight automatic qualifiers as regional champions and eight at-large selections. Ege secured her spot by reaching the semifinals of her regional tournament.

In the national event, Ege dropped a grueling first-round decision to Marion College regional champion Lauren Sieger in three sets, 6-7, 6-2, 2-6. The match lasted more than 2½ hours, with Ege holding serve in key moments but faltering on big points.

Ege fell in straight sets, 6-2, 6-1, to nationally ranked Lauren Sieger of Xavier University of Louisiana in the second round.

The tournament guarantees three matches regardless of results, providing opportunities for wins. Ege closed strong in the third round, defeating Ottawa (Ariz.)'s Julia Rizek 6-3, 7-6 (0) to notch a victory against top competition.

Advancing a round at the ITA Cup is a significant achievement in the loaded draw according to Head Coach Wade Morgan.

"It's great to bring TXWES Tennis back to the ITA Cup. Being at this tournament only motivates us to train harder and work to become regulars on the National Stage," Morgan said. "I am very proud of Zeynep for how she competed this weekend. She gained valuable experience, and now we know what the top level in the country is so that we can bring this experience back and put it into the team to get ready for our spring season ahead."